Oklahoma vs New Mexico: Which Is Better to Live In?
Oklahoma ranks #43 of 50 overall and New Mexico #49 as of the latest release. Oklahoma is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 92.2), has a 2.6-point lower tax burden, and has a 34% lower violent crime rate. Oklahoma scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 34% lower in Oklahoma (408 vs. 622 in New Mexico).
- Typical home value is 30% lower in Oklahoma ($223,261 vs. $318,241 in New Mexico).
- Total tax burden is 27% lower in Oklahoma (7.01% vs. 9.62% in New Mexico).
| Measure | OklahomaOK | New MexicoNM | GapOK−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +12.4 pts | 43.0#43 of 50 · D | 30.6#49 of 50 · F | +12.4 pts | — | OK |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4.4 pts (-5%) · US 100 | 87.8#4 of 50 | 92.2#15 of 50 | -4.4 pts-5% | 100 | OK |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$9,657 · US -$11,758 | +$5,197#6 of 50 | -$4,460#16 of 50 | +$9,657 | -$11,758 | OK |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$94,980 (-30%) · US $368,697 | $223,261#4 of 50 | $318,241#20 of 50 | -$94,980-30% | $368,697 | OK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.61 pts · US 8.74% | 7.01%#9 of 50 | 9.62%#39 of 50 | -2.61 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -214 (-34%) · US 328 | 408#39 of 50 | 622#49 of 50 | -214-34% | 328 | OK |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,668 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $66,148#45 of 50 | $67,816#43 of 50 | -$1,668-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.4 pts · US 85.62% | 80%#46 of 50 | 76.6%#50 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 85.62% | OK |
| Life expectancyGap -0.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#46 of 50 | 74.5#42 of 50 | -0.7 yrs | 76.9 | NM |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,627 · US -33 | +5,414#13 of 50 | -213#30 of 50 | +5,627 | -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 New Mexico better to live in?
Oklahoma scores higher overall: 43 to 30.6 out of 100, #43 of 50 against #49. Oklahoma leads 7 of 11 categories, New Mexico leads 4, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | OklahomaOK | New MexicoNM | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +10 | 15% | 42.2#33 · C+ | 32.2#41 · C | +10 pts | OK |
| Safety12% of scoregap +23.5 | 12% | 56.4#41 · C | 32.9#49 · F | +23.5 pts | OK |
| Health12% of scoregap -9.5 | 12% | 26.7#48 · D | 36.2#42 · C | -9.5 pts | NM |
| Education12% of scoregap +23.6 | 12% | 30.2#48 · D | 6.6#50 · F | +23.6 pts | OK |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +7.6 | 10% | 88.6#4 · A+ | 81.0#13 · B+ | +7.6 pts | OK |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -3.6 | 8% | 58.4#27 · C+ | 62.0#21 · B | -3.6 pts | NM |
| Growth7% of scoregap +25.7 | 7% | 48.9#15 · B+ | 23.2#43 · D | +25.7 pts | OK |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +4.2 | 7% | 47.1#32 · C+ | 42.9#42 · C | +4.2 pts | OK |
| Livability7% of scoregap +3.8 | 7% | 26.7#37 · C | 22.9#44 · D | +3.8 pts | OK |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -31.6 | 6% | 12.7#39 · C | 44.3#10 · A | -31.6 pts | NM |
| Environment4% of scoregap -13.5 | 4% | 37.3#32 · C+ | 50.8#13 · B+ | -13.5 pts | NM |
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 New Mexico?
Oklahoma is cheaper: cost of living index 87.8 vs 92.2 in New Mexico (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $9,657 more a year in Oklahoma after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | New MexicoNM | GapOK−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4.4 pts (-5%) · US 100 | 87.8#4 of 50 | 92.2#15 of 50 | -4.4 pts-5% | 100 | OK |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.3 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 93.8#5 of 50 | 96.1#17 of 50 | -2.3 pts-2% | 100 | OK |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.96¢ (-13%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.12¢/kWh#9 of 50 | 15.08¢/kWh#22 of 50 | -1.96¢-13% | 17.84¢/kWh | OK |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.16 (+42%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.99/Mcf#21 of 50 | $9.83/Mcf#4 of 50 | +$4.16+42% | $15.83/Mcf | NM |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.02 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.04/gal#10 of 50 | $3.02/gal#8 of 50 | +$0.02+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap — · US $15,633 | $11,012#9 of 50 | — | — | $15,633 | Even |
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 | New MexicoNM | GapOK−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$3,270 | +$37,262costs $37,739 | +$33,992costs $41,009 | +$3,270 | OK |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$4,222 | +$30,802costs $44,198 | +$26,580costs $48,421 | +$4,222 | OK |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$9,657 | +$5,197costs $69,802 | -$4,460costs $79,461 | +$9,657 | OK |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$3,612 | +$42,644costs $32,356 | +$39,032costs $35,968 | +$3,612 | 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 | New MexicoNM | GapOK−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$6,220 | $15,445 | $21,665 | -$6,220 | OK |
| ChildcareGap -$4,344 | $22,024 | $26,368 | -$4,344 | OK |
| UtilitiesGap -$212 | $4,214 | $4,426 | -$212 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$259 | $10,565 | $10,824 | -$259 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$63 | $9,554 | $9,491 | +$63 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,313 | $8,000 | $6,687 | +$1,313 | NM |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Oklahoma or New Mexico?
Oklahoma collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.01% vs 9.62%. Oklahoma has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; New Mexico has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | New MexicoNM | GapOK−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.61 pts · US 8.74% | 7.01%#9 of 50 | 9.62%#39 of 50 | -2.61 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.15 pts · US 5.46% | 4.75%#20 of 50 | 5.9%#31 of 50 | -1.15 pts | 5.46% | OK |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.11 pts · US 1.02% | 0.85%#25 of 50 | 0.74%#17 of 50 | +0.11 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.39 pts · US 6.66% | 9.06%#45 of 50 | 7.67%#34 of 50 | +1.39 pts | 6.66% | NM |
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 New Mexico?
Homes cost 43% more in New Mexico: a typical home value of $223,261 in Oklahoma vs $318,241 in New Mexico. Buying the typical home takes about $65,093 of income in Oklahoma and $83,498 in New Mexico; the median household earns $66,148 and $67,816.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | New MexicoNM | GapOK−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$94,980 (-30%) · US $368,697 | $223,261#4 of 50 | $318,241#20 of 50 | -$94,980-30% | $368,697 | OK |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.1 pts · US +1.2% | +2.8%#19 of 50 | +1.7%#30 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.2% | OK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$111 (-7%) · US $1,948 | $1,388#8 of 50 | $1,499#13 of 50 | -$111-7% | $1,948 | OK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$18,405 (-22%) · US $100,006 | $65,093#7 of 50 | $83,498#18 of 50 | -$18,405-22% | $100,006 | OK |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.3x (-28%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#6 of 50 | 4.7x#31 of 50 | -1.3x-28% | 4.6x | OK |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| OK | NM | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,149 | $1,637 |
| Income needed vs. median | -2% | +23% |
| Five-year change | +26.5% | +25.9% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Oklahoma City | Albuquerque |
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 New Mexico?
Median household income is about the same, $66,148 in Oklahoma and $67,816 in New Mexico, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4.2%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Oklahoma's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and New Mexico's in 1.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | New MexicoNM | GapOK−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$1,668 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $66,148#45 of 50 | $67,816#43 of 50 | -$1,668-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#14 of 50 | 4.2%#32 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 3.95% | OK |
| GDP per capitaGap +$2,875 (+5%) · US $64,333 | $55,709#39 of 50 | $52,834#43 of 50 | +$2,875+5% | $64,333 | OK |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#34 of 50 | +1.2%#44 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.68 pts · US +0.51% | +0.62%#18 of 50 | -0.06%#47 of 50 | +0.68 pts | +0.51% | OK |
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 | NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| General & Operations Managers | $102,376$90,091 in Oklahoma City | $95,643$86,079 in Albuquerque | OK |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $106,759$93,948 in Oklahoma City | $100,766$90,689 in Albuquerque | OK |
| Registered Nurses | $86,852$76,430 in Tulsa | $81,004$72,904 in Albuquerque | OK |
| Lawyers | $150,260$132,229 in Oklahoma City | $146,343$131,709 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $77,585$68,275 in Tulsa | $74,453$67,008 in Albuquerque | OK |
| Secondary School Teachers | $63,976$56,299 in Oklahoma City | $66,213$59,592 in Albuquerque | NM |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,273$46,880 in Oklahoma City | $51,043$45,939 in Albuquerque | OK |
| Software Developers | $132,359$116,476 in Oklahoma City | $130,234$117,211 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $44,757$39,386 in Oklahoma City | $42,704$38,434 in Albuquerque | OK |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $223,792$196,937 in Tulsa | $221,963$199,767 in Albuquerque | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $57,591$50,680 in Tulsa | $55,882$50,294 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $49,615$43,661 in Oklahoma City | $47,934$43,141 in Albuquerque | OK |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $55,645$48,968 in Tulsa | $54,143$48,729 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $75,697$66,613 in Oklahoma City | $74,208$66,787 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,739$48,170 in Oklahoma City | $53,622$48,260 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Electricians | $60,794$53,499 in Oklahoma City | $61,299$55,169 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $64,257$56,546 in Oklahoma City | $64,547$58,092 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $95,295$83,860 in Oklahoma City | $95,573$86,016 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $68,550$60,324 in Tulsa | $68,356$61,520 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $33,001$29,041 in Tulsa | $33,062$29,756 in Albuquerque | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Oklahoma safer than New Mexico?
Oklahoma is safer: 408 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 622 in New Mexico (FBI). Property crime runs 1,814 and 2,240 per 100,000.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | New MexicoNM | GapOK−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -214 (-34%) · US 328 | 408#39 of 50 | 622#49 of 50 | -214-34% | 328 | OK |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -426 (-19%) · US 1,535 | 1,814#42 of 50 | 2,240#50 of 50 | -426-19% | 1,535 | OK |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Bixby, OK80 violent per 100K
- Sunland Park, NM280 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Oklahoma or New Mexico?
Oklahoma scores higher for education (#48 of 50 vs #50), with high school graduation rates of 80% and 76.6%. New Mexico scores higher for health (#42 vs #48); life expectancy is 73.8 years in Oklahoma and 74.5 in New Mexico.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | New MexicoNM | GapOK−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 265#45 of 50 | 256#50 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 249#47 of 50 | 245#50 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.4 pts · US 85.62% | 80%#46 of 50 | 76.6%#50 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 85.62% | OK |
| Life expectancyGap -0.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#46 of 50 | 74.5#42 of 50 | -0.7 yrs | 76.9 | NM |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.3 pts · US 34.03% | 36.8%#37 of 50 | 34.5%#28 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 34.03% | NM |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.4 pts · US 7.6% | 11.5%#48 of 50 | 10.1%#42 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 7.6% | NM |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+15%) · US 38.8 | 46#49 of 50 | 40#28 of 50 | +6 pts+15% | 38.8 | NM |
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
- Los Alamos, NMeducation score 93
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, New Mexico #50. Health: Oklahoma #48, New Mexico #42.
Are more people moving from Oklahoma to New Mexico, or from New Mexico to Oklahoma?
712 households moved from New Mexico to Oklahoma in the latest IRS release (average income $63,598); the flow from Oklahoma to New Mexico is too small to appear among New Mexico's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,058 people (±1,034) moving from Oklahoma to New Mexico and 1,692 (±704) 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 | New MexicoNM | GapOK−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +15,019 (+49%) | 45,591#30 of 50 | 30,572#36 of 50 | +15,019+49% | OK |
| Households moving outIRSGap +9,392 (+31%) | 40,177#19 of 50 | 30,785#15 of 50 | +9,392+31% | NM |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,627 | +5,414#13 of 50 | -213#30 of 50 | +5,627 | OK |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.4 | +1.3#17 of 50 | -0.1#30 of 50 | +1.4 | OK |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$7,099 (-11%) | $59,003#46 of 50 | $66,102#37 of 50 | -$7,099-11% | NM |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$8,222 (-12%) | $60,448#48 of 50 | $68,670#34 of 50 | -$8,222-12% | NM |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.6 | +3.5#14 of 50 | -1.1#38 of 50 | +4.6 | 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 New Mexico?
Oklahoma is the better fit for families, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; New Mexico is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | New MexicoNM | GapOK−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -4 places | #46score 47.3 | #50score 29.1 | -4 places | OK |
| RetireesGap -1 places | #41score 53.7 | #42score 52.7 | -1 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap -8 places | #21score 54.6 | #29score 50 | -8 places | OK |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -22 places | #26score 53.7 | #48score 34.6 | -22 places | OK |
| Small BusinessGap -19 places | #28score 53.4 | #47score 34.6 | -19 places | OK |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +13 places | #42score 29.3 | #29score 42.2 | +13 places | NM |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesOklahoma (#46 vs #50)
- RetireesEven (#41 vs #42)
- Remote WorkersOklahoma (#21 vs #29)
- Young ProfessionalsOklahoma (#26 vs #48)
- Small BusinessOklahoma (#28 vs #47)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew Mexico (#29 vs #42)
Which cities stand out in Oklahoma and New Mexico?
Oklahoma has 20 tracked cities and New Mexico has 20; the largest are Oklahoma City and Albuquerque. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | OklahomaOK | New MexicoNM |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Oklahoma City697,125 people | Albuquerque562,218 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bixbyscore 66.9 | Los Alamosscore 75.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bixby80 violent per 100K | Sunland Park280 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Stillwatercost index 83.6 | Roswellcost index 85.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Tulsawalkability 12.4 of 20 | Albuquerquewalkability 13 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Ardmorecounty median AQI 32 | Los Alamoscounty median AQI 13 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Bixby95% graduation rate | Los Alamos93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Jenksmedian income $111,004 | Los Alamosmedian income $141,018 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Bixby+2.9% growth | Los Lunas+3.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Oklahoma and New Mexico compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Oklahoma carries AA credit rating and New Mexico AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | OklahomaOK | New MexicoNM | GapOK−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#11 of 50 | 53%#10 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | NM |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +7.2 (+26%) · US 29.6 | 34.6#32 of 50 | 27.4#26 of 50 | +7.2+26% | 29.6 | NM |
| Public land shareGap -32.5 pts · US 17.16% | 2.2%#43 of 50 | 34.7%#10 of 50 | -32.5 pts | 17.16% | NM |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.3 min · US 25.2 min | 22.7 min#12 of 50 | 24 min#19 of 50 | -1.3 min | 25.2 min | OK |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.3%#47 of 50 | 0.5%#43 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.4 pts · US 12.28% | 8.9%#42 of 50 | 10.3%#35 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 12.28% | NM |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.6 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#35 of 50 | 90.5%#46 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 92.67% | OK |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | New MexicoNM | GapOK−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#38 of 50 | 90#41 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -13.3 pts · US 12.39% | 9.2%#30 of 50 | 22.5%#4 of 50 | -13.3 pts | 12.39% | NM |
| Pension funded ratioGap +4 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#31 of 50 | 68%#36 of 50 | +4 pts | 74.3% | OK |
| State debt per capitaGap -$490 (-16%) · US $3,506 | $2,560#21 of 50 | $3,050#28 of 50 | -$490-16% | $3,506 | OK |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.7 pts · US +4.66% | +5.8%#18 of 50 | +9.5%#2 of 50 | -3.7 pts | +4.66% | NM |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Oklahoma AA, New Mexico 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 New Mexico: 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 26 of 50, New Mexico on 14, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | OklahomaOK | New MexicoNM | GapOK−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,997,790 (+94%) · US 6.8 million | 4.1 million#28 of 50 | 2.1 million#36 of 50 | +1,997,790+94% | 6.8 million | OK |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,668 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $66,148#45 of 50 | $67,816#43 of 50 | -$1,668-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#14 of 50 | 4.2%#32 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 3.95% | OK |
| Population growthGap +0.68 pts · US +0.51% | +0.62%#18 of 50 | -0.06%#47 of 50 | +0.68 pts | +0.51% | OK |
| GDP per capitaGap +$2,875 (+5%) · US $64,333 | $55,709#39 of 50 | $52,834#43 of 50 | +$2,875+5% | $64,333 | OK |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#34 of 50 | +1.2%#44 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -214 (-34%) · US 328 | 408#39 of 50 | 622#49 of 50 | -214-34% | 328 | OK |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -426 (-19%) · US 1,535 | 1,814#42 of 50 | 2,240#50 of 50 | -426-19% | 1,535 | OK |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.4 pts · US 85.62% | 80%#46 of 50 | 76.6%#50 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 85.62% | OK |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +9 · US 237 | 233#44 of 50 | 224#50 of 50 | +9 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 265#45 of 50 | 256#50 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +7 · US 214 | 207#46 of 50 | 201#50 of 50 | +7 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 249#47 of 50 | 245#50 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#46 of 50 | 74.5#42 of 50 | -0.7 yrs | 76.9 | NM |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.3 pts · US 34.03% | 36.8%#37 of 50 | 34.5%#28 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 34.03% | NM |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.4 pts · US 7.6% | 11.5%#48 of 50 | 10.1%#42 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 7.6% | NM |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$94,980 (-30%) · US $368,697 | $223,261#4 of 50 | $318,241#20 of 50 | -$94,980-30% | $368,697 | OK |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.1 pts · US +1.2% | +2.8%#19 of 50 | +1.7%#30 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.2% | OK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$111 (-7%) · US $1,948 | $1,388#8 of 50 | $1,499#13 of 50 | -$111-7% | $1,948 | OK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$18,405 (-22%) · US $100,006 | $65,093#7 of 50 | $83,498#18 of 50 | -$18,405-22% | $100,006 | OK |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4.4 pts (-5%) · US 100 | 87.8#4 of 50 | 92.2#15 of 50 | -4.4 pts-5% | 100 | OK |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.3x (-28%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#6 of 50 | 4.7x#31 of 50 | -1.3x-28% | 4.6x | OK |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.96¢ (-13%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.12¢/kWh#9 of 50 | 15.08¢/kWh#22 of 50 | -1.96¢-13% | 17.84¢/kWh | OK |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.16 (+42%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.99/Mcf#21 of 50 | $9.83/Mcf#4 of 50 | +$4.16+42% | $15.83/Mcf | NM |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.02 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.04/gal#10 of 50 | $3.02/gal#8 of 50 | +$0.02+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.3 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 93.8#5 of 50 | 96.1#17 of 50 | -2.3 pts-2% | 100 | OK |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap — · US $15,633 | $11,012#9 of 50 | — | — | $15,633 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.61 pts · US 8.74% | 7.01%#9 of 50 | 9.62%#39 of 50 | -2.61 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.15 pts · US 5.46% | 4.75%#20 of 50 | 5.9%#31 of 50 | -1.15 pts | 5.46% | OK |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.11 pts · US 1.02% | 0.85%#25 of 50 | 0.74%#17 of 50 | +0.11 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.39 pts · US 6.66% | 9.06%#45 of 50 | 7.67%#34 of 50 | +1.39 pts | 6.66% | NM |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#38 of 50 | 90#41 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -13.3 pts · US 12.39% | 9.2%#30 of 50 | 22.5%#4 of 50 | -13.3 pts | 12.39% | NM |
| Pension funded ratioGap +4 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#31 of 50 | 68%#36 of 50 | +4 pts | 74.3% | OK |
| State debt per capitaGap -$490 (-16%) · US $3,506 | $2,560#21 of 50 | $3,050#28 of 50 | -$490-16% | $3,506 | OK |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.7 pts · US +4.66% | +5.8%#18 of 50 | +9.5%#2 of 50 | -3.7 pts | +4.66% | NM |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+15%) · US 38.8 | 46#49 of 50 | 40#28 of 50 | +6 pts+15% | 38.8 | NM |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#11 of 50 | 53%#10 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | NM |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +7.2 (+26%) · US 29.6 | 34.6#32 of 50 | 27.4#26 of 50 | +7.2+26% | 29.6 | NM |
| Public land shareGap -32.5 pts · US 17.16% | 2.2%#43 of 50 | 34.7%#10 of 50 | -32.5 pts | 17.16% | NM |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.3 min · US 25.2 min | 22.7 min#12 of 50 | 24 min#19 of 50 | -1.3 min | 25.2 min | OK |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.3%#47 of 50 | 0.5%#43 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.4 pts · US 12.28% | 8.9%#42 of 50 | 10.3%#35 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 12.28% | NM |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.6 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#35 of 50 | 90.5%#46 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 92.67% | OK |
| Households moving inIRSGap +15,019 (+49%) · US 78,682 | 45,591#30 of 50 | 30,572#36 of 50 | +15,019+49% | 78,682 | OK |
| Households moving outIRSGap +9,392 (+31%) · US 78,715 | 40,177#19 of 50 | 30,785#15 of 50 | +9,392+31% | 78,715 | NM |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,627 · US -33 | +5,414#13 of 50 | -213#30 of 50 | +5,627 | -33 | OK |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.4 · US +0.4 | +1.3#17 of 50 | -0.1#30 of 50 | +1.4 | +0.4 | OK |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$7,099 (-11%) · US $77,690 | $59,003#46 of 50 | $66,102#37 of 50 | -$7,099-11% | $77,690 | NM |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$8,222 (-12%) · US $77,024 | $60,448#48 of 50 | $68,670#34 of 50 | -$8,222-12% | $77,024 | NM |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.6 · US +1.1 | +3.5#14 of 50 | -1.1#38 of 50 | +4.6 | +1.1 | OK |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$9,657 · US -$11,758 | +$5,197#6 of 50 | -$4,460#16 of 50 | +$9,657 | -$11,758 | OK |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$3,270 · US +$31,418 | +$37,262#5 of 50 | +$33,992#20 of 50 | +$3,270 | +$31,418 | OK |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$3,612 · US +$35,970 | +$42,644#5 of 50 | +$39,032#18 of 50 | +$3,612 | +$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 New Mexico numbers say when read together.
Oklahoma ranks higher overall
Oklahoma leads 7 of the 11 categories to New Mexico's 4, with 0 even; New Mexico is ahead on outdoor access and environment. Across all 50 measures with data on both sides, Oklahoma is ahead on 26 and New Mexico on 14.
Oklahoma is cheaper day to day
Oklahoma's cost of living index is 87.8 against 92.2 in New Mexico (US = 100). The typical home costs $223,261 in Oklahoma and $318,241 in New Mexico. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$5,197 a year after typical costs in Oklahoma and -$4,460 in New Mexico.
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); New Mexico collects 9.62% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Oklahoma is safer
Median household income is $66,148 in Oklahoma and $67,816 in New Mexico, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4.2%. Violent crime runs 408 per 100,000 residents in Oklahoma and 622 in New Mexico.
Moves between the two run about even
2,058 people moved from Oklahoma to New Mexico and 1,692 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Oklahoma is the better fit for families
For families, Oklahoma ranks #46 of 50 and New Mexico #50; for retirees, Oklahoma ranks #41 and New Mexico #42.
Oklahoma vs New Mexico: frequently asked questions
Is Oklahoma or New Mexico better to live in?
Oklahoma ranks #43 of 50 overall and New Mexico #49 as of the latest release. Oklahoma is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 92.2), has a 2.6-point lower tax burden, and has a 34% lower violent crime rate. Oklahoma scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Oklahoma cheaper than New Mexico?
Oklahoma is cheaper than New Mexico: cost of living index 87.8 vs 92.2 (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 -$4,460 in New Mexico. The typical home value is $223,261 in Oklahoma and $318,241 in New Mexico.
Which has lower taxes, Oklahoma or New Mexico?
Oklahoma has the lower tax burden: 7.01% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.62% in New Mexico. Oklahoma's top income tax rate is 4.75%, its effective property tax rate 0.85% and its combined sales tax 9.06%; New Mexico's are 5.9%, 0.74% and 7.67%.
Is Oklahoma safer than New Mexico?
Oklahoma is safer: 408 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 622 in New Mexico, per the FBI. Oklahoma ranks #39 of 50 for violent crime and New Mexico #49. Property crime is 1,814 per 100,000 in Oklahoma and 2,240 in New Mexico. The safest tracked cities are Bixby, OK, and Sunland Park, NM.
Are homes more expensive in Oklahoma or New Mexico?
Homes are 43% more expensive in New Mexico: the typical home value is $223,261 in Oklahoma and $318,241 in New Mexico. Buying the typical home takes about $65,093 of household income in Oklahoma and $83,498 in New Mexico, against median incomes of $66,148 and $67,816.
Do people earn more in Oklahoma or New Mexico?
Oklahoma and New Mexico pay about the same: median household income is $66,148 vs $67,816, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Oklahoma and 4.2% in New Mexico. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Oklahoma's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and New Mexico's in 1, with 12 even.
Are more people moving from Oklahoma to New Mexico or from New Mexico to Oklahoma?
712 households moved from New Mexico to Oklahoma in the latest IRS release (average income $63,598); the flow from Oklahoma to New Mexico is too small to appear among New Mexico's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,058 people (±1,034) moving from Oklahoma to New Mexico and 1,692 (±704) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Oklahoma or New Mexico?
Oklahoma and New Mexico are close for retirees: #41 and #42 of 50 on the retiree index. Oklahoma has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; New Mexico has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$42,644 left after typical costs in Oklahoma and +$39,032 in New Mexico.
Which is better for families, Oklahoma or New Mexico?
Oklahoma is the better fit for families: #46 of 50 on the families index vs #50 for New Mexico. High school graduation rates are 80% and 76.6%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$5,197 after typical costs in Oklahoma and -$4,460 in New Mexico.
Is New Mexico better than Oklahoma?
No: Oklahoma ranks higher than New Mexico overall, #43 of 50 vs #49, with a composite score of 43 to 30.6. Oklahoma leads 7 of 11 categories and New Mexico leads 4, including outdoor access and environment. 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 New Mexico.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states.