Missouri vs Oklahoma: Which Is Better to Live In?
Missouri ranks #34 of 50 overall and Oklahoma #43 as of the latest release. Oklahoma is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.8), has a 0.8-point lower tax burden. Missouri scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 4.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 27% lower in Oklahoma ($11,012 vs. $15,080 in Missouri).
- Typical home value is 17% lower in Oklahoma ($223,261 vs. $267,879 in Missouri).
- Total tax burden is 10% lower in Oklahoma (7.01% vs. 7.83% in Missouri).
| Measure | MissouriMO | OklahomaOK | GapMO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +8 pts | 51.0#34 of 50 · C+ | 43.0#43 of 50 · D | +8 pts | — | MO |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 90.8#13 of 50 | 87.8#4 of 50 | +3 pts+3% | 100 | OK |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$11,285 · US -$11,758 | -$6,088#19 of 50 | +$5,197#6 of 50 | -$11,285 | -$11,758 | OK |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$44,618 (+20%) · US $368,697 | $267,879#13 of 50 | $223,261#4 of 50 | +$44,618+20% | $368,697 | OK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.82 pts · US 8.74% | 7.83%#12 of 50 | 7.01%#9 of 50 | +0.82 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +10 (+2%) · US 328 | 418#41 of 50 | 408#39 of 50 | +10+2% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,441 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $71,589#42 of 50 | $66,148#45 of 50 | +$5,441+8% | $80,903 | MO |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.8%#7 of 50 | 80%#46 of 50 | +9.8 pts | 85.62% | MO |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.2#40 of 50 | 73.8#46 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | MO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -2,620 · US -33 | +2,794#19 of 50 | +5,414#13 of 50 | -2,620 | -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 Missouri or Oklahoma better to live in?
Missouri scores higher overall: 51 to 43 out of 100, #34 of 50 against #43. Missouri leads 4 of 11 categories, Oklahoma leads 4, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MissouriMO | OklahomaOK | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -3.9 | 15% | 38.3#39 · C | 42.2#33 · C+ | -3.9 pts | OK |
| Safety12% of scoregap +1.7 | 12% | 58.1#40 · C | 56.4#41 · C | +1.7 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +17.4 | 12% | 44.1#36 · C | 26.7#48 · D | +17.4 pts | MO |
| Education12% of scoregap +29.5 | 12% | 59.7#27 · C+ | 30.2#48 · D | +29.5 pts | MO |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -8.8 | 10% | 79.8#14 · B+ | 88.6#4 · A+ | -8.8 pts | OK |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +7 | 8% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 58.4#27 · C+ | +7 pts | MO |
| Growth7% of scoregap -9.9 | 7% | 39.0#27 · C+ | 48.9#15 · B+ | -9.9 pts | OK |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -1 | 7% | 46.1#34 · C+ | 47.1#32 · C+ | -1 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +4.5 | 7% | 31.2#29 · C+ | 26.7#37 · C | +4.5 pts | MO |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +2.3 | 6% | 15.0#34 · C+ | 12.7#39 · C | +2.3 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -12 | 4% | 25.3#46 · D | 37.3#32 · C+ | -12 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 Missouri cheaper than Oklahoma?
Oklahoma is cheaper: cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.8 in Missouri (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $11,285 more a year in Oklahoma after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MissouriMO | OklahomaOK | GapMO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 90.8#13 of 50 | 87.8#4 of 50 | +3 pts+3% | 100 | OK |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.5 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.3#22 of 50 | 93.8#5 of 50 | +2.5 pts+3% | 100 | OK |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.37¢ (+3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.49¢/kWh#15 of 50 | 13.12¢/kWh#9 of 50 | +0.37¢+3% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.95 (+7%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.94/Mcf#25 of 50 | $13.99/Mcf#21 of 50 | +$0.95+7% | $15.83/Mcf | OK |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.03/gal#9 of 50 | $3.04/gal#10 of 50 | -$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,068 (+37%) · US $15,633 | $15,080#25 of 50 | $11,012#9 of 50 | +$4,068+37% | $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 | MissouriMO | OklahomaOK | GapMO−OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$1,731 | +$35,531costs $39,469 | +$37,262costs $37,739 | -$1,731 | OK |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$2,298 | +$28,504costs $46,496 | +$30,802costs $44,198 | -$2,298 | OK |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$11,285 | -$6,088costs $81,087 | +$5,197costs $69,802 | -$11,285 | OK |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$1,971 | +$40,673costs $34,327 | +$42,644costs $32,356 | -$1,971 | 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 | MissouriMO | OklahomaOK | GapMO−OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$3,247 | $18,692 | $15,445 | +$3,247 | OK |
| ChildcareGap +$8,136 | $30,160 | $22,024 | +$8,136 | OK |
| UtilitiesGap +$144 | $4,358 | $4,214 | +$144 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$281 | $10,846 | $10,565 | +$281 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$31 | $9,523 | $9,554 | -$31 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$492 | $7,508 | $8,000 | -$492 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Missouri or Oklahoma?
Oklahoma collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.01% vs 7.83%. Missouri has high 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 | MissouriMO | OklahomaOK | GapMO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.82 pts · US 8.74% | 7.83%#12 of 50 | 7.01%#9 of 50 | +0.82 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.95 pts · US 5.46% | 5.7%#28 of 50 | 4.75%#20 of 50 | +0.95 pts | 5.46% | OK |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.06 pts · US 1.02% | 0.91%#28 of 50 | 0.85%#25 of 50 | +0.06 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.62 pts · US 6.66% | 8.44%#39 of 50 | 9.06%#45 of 50 | -0.62 pts | 6.66% | MO |
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 Missouri or Oklahoma?
Homes cost 20% more in Missouri: a typical home value of $267,879 in Missouri vs $223,261 in Oklahoma. Buying the typical home takes about $73,656 of income in Missouri and $65,093 in Oklahoma; the median household earns $71,589 and $66,148.
| Measure | MissouriMO | OklahomaOK | GapMO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$44,618 (+20%) · US $368,697 | $267,879#13 of 50 | $223,261#4 of 50 | +$44,618+20% | $368,697 | OK |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.7 pts · US +1.2% | +3.5%#12 of 50 | +2.8%#19 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.2% | MO |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$55 (+4%) · US $1,948 | $1,443#12 of 50 | $1,388#8 of 50 | +$55+4% | $1,948 | OK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$8,563 (+13%) · US $100,006 | $73,656#11 of 50 | $65,093#7 of 50 | +$8,563+13% | $100,006 | OK |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.3x (+9%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#14 of 50 | 3.4x#6 of 50 | +0.3x+9% | 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.
| MO | OK | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,378 | $1,149 |
| Income needed vs. median | +3% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +26.2% | +26.5% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cold |
| Largest metro | St. Louis | 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 Missouri or Oklahoma?
Missouri pays more: median household income $71,589 vs $66,148, with unemployment at 4% in Missouri and 3.4% in Oklahoma. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Missouri's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Oklahoma's in 0.
| Measure | MissouriMO | OklahomaOK | GapMO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$5,441 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $71,589#42 of 50 | $66,148#45 of 50 | +$5,441+8% | $80,903 | MO |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#28 of 50 | 3.4%#14 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 3.95% | OK |
| GDP per capitaGap +$656 (+1%) · US $64,333 | $56,365#37 of 50 | $55,709#39 of 50 | +$656+1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +1.9%#27 of 50 | +1.6%#34 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.19 pts · US +0.51% | +0.43%#27 of 50 | +0.62%#18 of 50 | -0.19 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 | MO | OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $247,380$227,590 in Kansas City | $223,792$196,937 in Tulsa | MO |
| Software Developers | $144,801$133,217 in St. Louis | $132,359$116,476 in Oklahoma City | MO |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,655$80,643 in Kansas City | $77,585$68,275 in Tulsa | MO |
| General & Operations Managers | $111,455$102,539 in St. Louis | $102,376$90,091 in Oklahoma City | MO |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,968$70,811 in Kansas City | $68,550$60,324 in Tulsa | MO |
| Civil Engineers | $102,498$94,298 in Kansas City | $95,295$83,860 in Oklahoma City | MO |
| Registered Nurses | $94,050$86,526 in Kansas City | $86,852$76,430 in Tulsa | MO |
| Lawyers | $156,512$143,991 in St. Louis | $150,260$132,229 in Oklahoma City | MO |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,196$64,580 in Kansas City | $63,976$56,299 in Oklahoma City | MO |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,834$64,247 in St. Louis | $64,257$56,546 in Oklahoma City | MO |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,009$74,528 in St. Louis | $75,697$66,613 in Oklahoma City | MO |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,911$56,038 in St. Louis | $55,645$48,968 in Tulsa | MO |
| Electricians | $65,330$60,104 in St. Louis | $60,794$53,499 in Oklahoma City | MO |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,147$34,175 in St. Louis | $33,001$29,041 in Tulsa | MO |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $110,375$101,545 in St. Louis | $106,759$93,948 in Oklahoma City | MO |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,984$56,105 in Kansas City | $57,591$50,680 in Tulsa | MO |
| Mental Health Counselors | $55,976$51,498 in St. Louis | $53,273$46,880 in Oklahoma City | MO |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $52,185$48,010 in St. Louis | $49,615$43,661 in Oklahoma City | MO |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,673$52,139 in Kansas City | $54,739$48,170 in Oklahoma City | MO |
| Construction Laborers | $45,229$41,611 in Kansas City | $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 Missouri safer than Oklahoma?
Violent crime is about the same: 418 per 100,000 residents in Missouri and 408 in Oklahoma (FBI). Property crime runs 1,644 and 1,814 per 100,000.
| Measure | MissouriMO | OklahomaOK | GapMO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +10 (+2%) · US 328 | 418#41 of 50 | 408#39 of 50 | +10+2% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -169 (-9%) · US 1,535 | 1,644#34 of 50 | 1,814#42 of 50 | -169-9% | 1,535 | MO |
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.
- O'Fallon, MO97 violent per 100K
- Bixby, OK80 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Missouri or Oklahoma?
Missouri scores higher for education (#27 of 50 vs #48), with high school graduation rates of 89.8% and 80%. Missouri scores higher for health (#36 vs #48); life expectancy is 75.2 years in Missouri and 73.8 in Oklahoma.
| Measure | MissouriMO | OklahomaOK | GapMO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +6 · US 273 | 270#29 of 50 | 265#45 of 50 | +6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 255#32 of 50 | 249#47 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.8%#7 of 50 | 80%#46 of 50 | +9.8 pts | 85.62% | MO |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.2#40 of 50 | 73.8#46 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | MO |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.6%#29 of 50 | 36.8%#37 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 34.03% | MO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.8 pts · US 7.6% | 7.7%#28 of 50 | 11.5%#48 of 50 | -3.8 pts | 7.6% | MO |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-9%) · US 38.8 | 42#36 of 50 | 46#49 of 50 | -4 pts-9% | 38.8 | MO |
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).
- O'Fallon, MOeducation score 95.4
- 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: Missouri #27, Oklahoma #48. Health: Missouri #36, Oklahoma #48.
Are more people moving from Missouri to Oklahoma, or from Oklahoma to Missouri?
1,826 households moved from Missouri to Oklahoma and 1,938 moved from Oklahoma to Missouri in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 112 households for Missouri. Movers to Oklahoma reported an average income of $53,326; movers to Missouri reported $49,417. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,054 people (±1,228) moving from Missouri to Oklahoma and 3,750 (±1,165) 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 | MissouriMO | OklahomaOK | GapMO−OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +26,890 (+59%) | 72,481#19 of 50 | 45,591#30 of 50 | +26,890+59% | MO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +29,510 (+73%) | 69,687#30 of 50 | 40,177#19 of 50 | +29,510+73% | OK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -2,620 | +2,794#19 of 50 | +5,414#13 of 50 | -2,620 | OK |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.9 | +0.4#23 of 50 | +1.3#17 of 50 | -0.9 | OK |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$6,822 (+12%) | $65,825#38 of 50 | $59,003#46 of 50 | +$6,822+12% | MO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,096 (+18%) | $71,544#29 of 50 | $60,448#48 of 50 | +$11,096+18% | MO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.3 | +2.2#18 of 50 | +3.5#14 of 50 | -1.3 | 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, Missouri or Oklahoma?
Missouri is the better fit for families and retirees; Oklahoma is the better fit for remote workers and young professionals; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MissouriMO | OklahomaOK | GapMO−OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -12 places | #34score 60 | #46score 47.3 | -12 places | MO |
| RetireesGap -9 places | #32score 59.2 | #41score 53.7 | -9 places | MO |
| Remote WorkersGap +12 places | #33score 48.8 | #21score 54.6 | +12 places | OK |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +6 places | #32score 50.5 | #26score 53.7 | +6 places | OK |
| Small BusinessGap -2 places | #26score 56.7 | #28score 53.4 | -2 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -1 places | #41score 29.3 | #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.
- FamiliesMissouri (#34 vs #46)
- RetireesMissouri (#32 vs #41)
- Remote WorkersOklahoma (#21 vs #33)
- Young ProfessionalsOklahoma (#26 vs #32)
- Small BusinessEven (#26 vs #28)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#41 vs #42)
Which cities stand out in Missouri and Oklahoma?
Missouri has 20 tracked cities and Oklahoma has 20; the largest are Kansas City and Oklahoma City. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MissouriMO | OklahomaOK |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Kansas City510,612 people | Oklahoma City697,125 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Chesterfieldscore 70.5 | Bixbyscore 66.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | O'Fallon97 violent per 100K | Bixby80 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Joplincost index 85.7 | Stillwatercost index 83.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | University Citywalkability 14.4 of 20 | Tulsawalkability 12.4 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Columbiacounty median AQI 37 | Ardmorecounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | O'Fallon95.4% graduation rate | Bixby95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Wildwoodmedian income $161,060 | Jenksmedian income $111,004 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Wentzville+2% growth | Bixby+2.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Missouri and Oklahoma compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Missouri carries AAA credit rating and Oklahoma AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MissouriMO | OklahomaOK | GapMO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -36 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#25 of 50 | 52%#11 of 50 | -36 pts | 29.34% | OK |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +9.9 (+29%) · US 29.6 | 44.5#42 of 50 | 34.6#32 of 50 | +9.9+29% | 29.6 | OK |
| Public land shareGap +3.2 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#35 of 50 | 2.2%#43 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 17.16% | MO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.3 min · US 25.2 min | 24 min#18 of 50 | 22.7 min#12 of 50 | +1.3 min | 25.2 min | OK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#27 of 50 | 0.3%#47 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 2.29% | MO |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.9 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#29 of 50 | 8.9%#42 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 12.28% | MO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 91.3%#41 of 50 | 92.1%#35 of 50 | -0.8 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 | MissouriMO | OklahomaOK | GapMO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#16 of 50 | 90#38 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | MO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.3 pts · US 12.39% | 9.5%#29 of 50 | 9.2%#30 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#16 of 50 | 72%#31 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | MO |
| State debt per capitaGap -$480 (-19%) · US $3,506 | $2,080#10 of 50 | $2,560#21 of 50 | -$480-19% | $3,506 | MO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.9 pts · US +4.66% | +6.7%#12 of 50 | +5.8%#18 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +4.66% | MO |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Missouri AAA, 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).
Missouri vs Oklahoma: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Missouri is ahead on 18 of 51, Oklahoma on 21, and 12 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MissouriMO | OklahomaOK | GapMO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,147,253 (+52%) · US 6.8 million | 6.3 million#18 of 50 | 4.1 million#28 of 50 | +2,147,253+52% | 6.8 million | MO |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,441 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $71,589#42 of 50 | $66,148#45 of 50 | +$5,441+8% | $80,903 | MO |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#28 of 50 | 3.4%#14 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 3.95% | OK |
| Population growthGap -0.19 pts · US +0.51% | +0.43%#27 of 50 | +0.62%#18 of 50 | -0.19 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$656 (+1%) · US $64,333 | $56,365#37 of 50 | $55,709#39 of 50 | +$656+1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +1.9%#27 of 50 | +1.6%#34 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +10 (+2%) · US 328 | 418#41 of 50 | 408#39 of 50 | +10+2% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -169 (-9%) · US 1,535 | 1,644#34 of 50 | 1,814#42 of 50 | -169-9% | 1,535 | MO |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.8%#7 of 50 | 80%#46 of 50 | +9.8 pts | 85.62% | MO |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 235#35 of 50 | 233#44 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +6 · US 273 | 270#29 of 50 | 265#45 of 50 | +6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 214 | 212#38 of 50 | 207#46 of 50 | +5 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 255#32 of 50 | 249#47 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.2#40 of 50 | 73.8#46 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | MO |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.6%#29 of 50 | 36.8%#37 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 34.03% | MO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.8 pts · US 7.6% | 7.7%#28 of 50 | 11.5%#48 of 50 | -3.8 pts | 7.6% | MO |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$44,618 (+20%) · US $368,697 | $267,879#13 of 50 | $223,261#4 of 50 | +$44,618+20% | $368,697 | OK |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.7 pts · US +1.2% | +3.5%#12 of 50 | +2.8%#19 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.2% | MO |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$55 (+4%) · US $1,948 | $1,443#12 of 50 | $1,388#8 of 50 | +$55+4% | $1,948 | OK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$8,563 (+13%) · US $100,006 | $73,656#11 of 50 | $65,093#7 of 50 | +$8,563+13% | $100,006 | OK |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 90.8#13 of 50 | 87.8#4 of 50 | +3 pts+3% | 100 | OK |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.3x (+9%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#14 of 50 | 3.4x#6 of 50 | +0.3x+9% | 4.6x | OK |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.37¢ (+3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.49¢/kWh#15 of 50 | 13.12¢/kWh#9 of 50 | +0.37¢+3% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.95 (+7%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.94/Mcf#25 of 50 | $13.99/Mcf#21 of 50 | +$0.95+7% | $15.83/Mcf | OK |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.03/gal#9 of 50 | $3.04/gal#10 of 50 | -$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.5 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.3#22 of 50 | 93.8#5 of 50 | +2.5 pts+3% | 100 | OK |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,068 (+37%) · US $15,633 | $15,080#25 of 50 | $11,012#9 of 50 | +$4,068+37% | $15,633 | OK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.82 pts · US 8.74% | 7.83%#12 of 50 | 7.01%#9 of 50 | +0.82 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.95 pts · US 5.46% | 5.7%#28 of 50 | 4.75%#20 of 50 | +0.95 pts | 5.46% | OK |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.06 pts · US 1.02% | 0.91%#28 of 50 | 0.85%#25 of 50 | +0.06 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.62 pts · US 6.66% | 8.44%#39 of 50 | 9.06%#45 of 50 | -0.62 pts | 6.66% | MO |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#16 of 50 | 90#38 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | MO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.3 pts · US 12.39% | 9.5%#29 of 50 | 9.2%#30 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#16 of 50 | 72%#31 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | MO |
| State debt per capitaGap -$480 (-19%) · US $3,506 | $2,080#10 of 50 | $2,560#21 of 50 | -$480-19% | $3,506 | MO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.9 pts · US +4.66% | +6.7%#12 of 50 | +5.8%#18 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +4.66% | MO |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-9%) · US 38.8 | 42#36 of 50 | 46#49 of 50 | -4 pts-9% | 38.8 | MO |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -36 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#25 of 50 | 52%#11 of 50 | -36 pts | 29.34% | OK |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +9.9 (+29%) · US 29.6 | 44.5#42 of 50 | 34.6#32 of 50 | +9.9+29% | 29.6 | OK |
| Public land shareGap +3.2 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#35 of 50 | 2.2%#43 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 17.16% | MO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.3 min · US 25.2 min | 24 min#18 of 50 | 22.7 min#12 of 50 | +1.3 min | 25.2 min | OK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#27 of 50 | 0.3%#47 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 2.29% | MO |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.9 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#29 of 50 | 8.9%#42 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 12.28% | MO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 91.3%#41 of 50 | 92.1%#35 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 92.67% | OK |
| Households moving inIRSGap +26,890 (+59%) · US 78,682 | 72,481#19 of 50 | 45,591#30 of 50 | +26,890+59% | 78,682 | MO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +29,510 (+73%) · US 78,715 | 69,687#30 of 50 | 40,177#19 of 50 | +29,510+73% | 78,715 | OK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -2,620 · US -33 | +2,794#19 of 50 | +5,414#13 of 50 | -2,620 | -33 | OK |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.9 · US +0.4 | +0.4#23 of 50 | +1.3#17 of 50 | -0.9 | +0.4 | OK |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$6,822 (+12%) · US $77,690 | $65,825#38 of 50 | $59,003#46 of 50 | +$6,822+12% | $77,690 | MO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,096 (+18%) · US $77,024 | $71,544#29 of 50 | $60,448#48 of 50 | +$11,096+18% | $77,024 | MO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.3 · US +1.1 | +2.2#18 of 50 | +3.5#14 of 50 | -1.3 | +1.1 | OK |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$11,285 · US -$11,758 | -$6,088#19 of 50 | +$5,197#6 of 50 | -$11,285 | -$11,758 | OK |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$1,731 · US +$31,418 | +$35,531#14 of 50 | +$37,262#5 of 50 | -$1,731 | +$31,418 | OK |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$1,971 · US +$35,970 | +$40,673#11 of 50 | +$42,644#5 of 50 | -$1,971 | +$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 Missouri and Oklahoma numbers say when read together.
Missouri ranks higher overall
Missouri leads 4 of the 11 categories to Oklahoma's 4, with 3 even; Oklahoma is ahead on environment and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Missouri is ahead on 18 and Oklahoma on 21.
Oklahoma is cheaper day to day
Oklahoma's cost of living index is 87.8 against 90.8 in Missouri (US = 100). The typical home costs $267,879 in Missouri and $223,261 in Oklahoma. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$6,088 a year after typical costs in Missouri and +$5,197 in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma takes a smaller share in taxes
Missouri collects 7.83% of income in state and local taxes (high 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).
Missouri pays more
Median household income is $71,589 in Missouri and $66,148 in Oklahoma, with unemployment at 4% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 418 per 100,000 residents in Missouri and 408 in Oklahoma.
Moves between the two run about even
4,054 people moved from Missouri to Oklahoma and 3,750 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Missouri fits families and retirees better
For families, Missouri ranks #34 of 50 and Oklahoma #46; for retirees, Missouri ranks #32 and Oklahoma #41.
Missouri vs Oklahoma: frequently asked questions
Is Missouri or Oklahoma better to live in?
Missouri ranks #34 of 50 overall and Oklahoma #43 as of the latest release. Oklahoma is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.8), has a 0.8-point lower tax burden. Missouri scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Missouri cheaper than Oklahoma?
Oklahoma is cheaper than Missouri: cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$6,088 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Missouri, and +$5,197 in Oklahoma. The typical home value is $267,879 in Missouri and $223,261 in Oklahoma.
Which has lower taxes, Missouri or Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has the lower tax burden: 7.01% of income in state and local taxes vs 7.83% in Missouri. Missouri's top income tax rate is 5.7%, its effective property tax rate 0.91% and its combined sales tax 8.44%; Oklahoma's are 4.75%, 0.85% and 9.06%.
Is Missouri safer than Oklahoma?
Missouri and Oklahoma have similar violent crime rates: 418 vs 408 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. Missouri ranks #41 of 50 for violent crime and Oklahoma #39. Property crime is 1,644 per 100,000 in Missouri and 1,814 in Oklahoma. The safest tracked cities are O'Fallon, MO, and Bixby, OK.
Are homes more expensive in Missouri or Oklahoma?
Homes are 20% more expensive in Missouri: the typical home value is $267,879 in Missouri and $223,261 in Oklahoma. Buying the typical home takes about $73,656 of household income in Missouri and $65,093 in Oklahoma, against median incomes of $71,589 and $66,148.
Do people earn more in Missouri or Oklahoma?
Missouri pays more: median household income is $71,589 vs $66,148 in Oklahoma, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Missouri and 3.4% in Oklahoma. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Missouri'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 Missouri to Oklahoma or from Oklahoma to Missouri?
1,826 households moved from Missouri to Oklahoma and 1,938 moved from Oklahoma to Missouri in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 112 households for Missouri. Movers to Oklahoma reported an average income of $53,326; movers to Missouri reported $49,417. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,054 people (±1,228) moving from Missouri to Oklahoma and 3,750 (±1,165) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Missouri or Oklahoma?
Missouri is the better fit for retirees: #32 of 50 on the retiree index vs #41 for Oklahoma. Missouri has high 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 +$40,673 left after typical costs in Missouri and +$42,644 in Oklahoma.
Which is better for families, Missouri or Oklahoma?
Missouri is the better fit for families: #34 of 50 on the families index vs #46 for Oklahoma. Center-based infant care costs $15,080 a year in Missouri and $11,012 in Oklahoma. High school graduation rates are 89.8% and 80%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$6,088 after typical costs in Missouri and +$5,197 in Oklahoma.
Is Oklahoma better than Missouri?
No: Missouri ranks higher than Oklahoma overall, #34 of 50 vs #43, with a composite score of 51 to 43. Missouri leads 4 of 11 categories and Oklahoma leads 4, including environment 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 Missouri vs Oklahoma.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states.