Oklahoma vs West Virginia: Which Is Better to Live In?
Oklahoma ranks #43 of 50 overall and West Virginia #44 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 89.5); Oklahoma has a 1.8-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 0.2 points apart, too close to call: Oklahoma leads 5 of 11 categories, West Virginia leads 3.
- Property crime rate is 42% lower in West Virginia (1,053 vs. 1,814 in Oklahoma).
- Violent crime rate is 41% lower in West Virginia (242 vs. 408 in Oklahoma).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 28% lower in West Virginia ($47,071 vs. $65,093 in Oklahoma).
| Measure | OklahomaOK | West VirginiaWV | GapOK−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +0.2 pts | 43.0#43 of 50 · D | 42.8#44 of 50 · D | +0.2 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.7 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 87.8#4 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | -1.7 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$5,787 · US -$11,758 | +$5,197#6 of 50 | +$10,984#2 of 50 | -$5,787 | -$11,758 | WV |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$43,765 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $223,261#4 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$43,765+24% | $368,697 | WV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.84 pts · US 8.74% | 7.01%#9 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | -1.84 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +166 (+69%) · US 328 | 408#39 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | +166+69% | 328 | WV |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,350 (+9%) · US $80,903 | $66,148#45 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$5,350+9% | $80,903 | OK |
| High school graduation rateGap -11.2 pts · US 85.62% | 80%#46 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -11.2 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| Life expectancyGap +1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#46 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +1.6 yrs | 76.9 | OK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +4,535 · US -33 | +5,414#13 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | +4,535 | -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 West Virginia better to live in?
Oklahoma scores 43 and West Virginia scores 42.8 out of 100, a 0.2-point gap this site treats as even. Oklahoma leads 5 of 11 categories, West Virginia leads 3, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | OklahomaOK | West VirginiaWV | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +16 | 15% | 42.2#33 · C+ | 26.2#47 · D | +16 pts | OK |
| Safety12% of scoregap -24.5 | 12% | 56.4#41 · C | 80.9#9 · A | -24.5 pts | WV |
| Health12% of scoregap +5.4 | 12% | 26.7#48 · D | 21.3#49 · F | +5.4 pts | OK |
| Education12% of scoregap -14.9 | 12% | 30.2#48 · D | 45.1#43 · D | -14.9 pts | WV |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +2.4 | 10% | 88.6#4 · A+ | 86.2#6 · A | +2.4 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -1.7 | 8% | 58.4#27 · C+ | 60.1#23 · B | -1.7 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap +17.5 | 7% | 48.9#15 · B+ | 31.4#31 · C+ | +17.5 pts | OK |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +7.9 | 7% | 47.1#32 · C+ | 39.2#46 · D | +7.9 pts | OK |
| Livability7% of scoregap -2.4 | 7% | 26.7#37 · C | 29.1#32 · C+ | -2.4 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -4 | 6% | 12.7#39 · C | 16.7#33 · C+ | -4 pts | WV |
| Environment4% of scoregap +8.5 | 4% | 37.3#32 · C+ | 28.8#41 · C | +8.5 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 Oklahoma cheaper than West Virginia?
Oklahoma and West Virginia cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 87.8 vs 89.5 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $5,787 more a year in West Virginia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | West VirginiaWV | GapOK−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.7 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 87.8#4 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | -1.7 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.7 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 93.8#5 of 50 | 96.5#27 of 50 | -2.7 pts-3% | 100 | OK |
| Residential electricity priceGap -2.29¢ (-15%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.12¢/kWh#9 of 50 | 15.41¢/kWh#27 of 50 | -2.29¢-15% | 17.84¢/kWh | OK |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.19 (+1%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.99/Mcf#21 of 50 | $13.80/Mcf#19 of 50 | +$0.19+1% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.29 (-9%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.04/gal#10 of 50 | $3.33/gal#37 of 50 | -$0.29-9% | $3.32/gal | OK |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,673 (+18%) · US $15,633 | $11,012#9 of 50 | $9,339#4 of 50 | +$1,673+18% | $15,633 | WV |
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 | West VirginiaWV | GapOK−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$1,941 | +$37,262costs $37,739 | +$39,203costs $35,796 | -$1,941 | WV |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$1,865 | +$30,802costs $44,198 | +$32,667costs $42,333 | -$1,865 | WV |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$5,787 | +$5,197costs $69,802 | +$10,984costs $64,017 | -$5,787 | WV |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$1,712 | +$42,644costs $32,356 | +$44,356costs $30,644 | -$1,712 | WV |
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 | West VirginiaWV | GapOK−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$3,566 | $15,445 | $11,879 | +$3,566 | WV |
| ChildcareGap +$3,346 | $22,024 | $18,678 | +$3,346 | WV |
| UtilitiesGap -$82 | $4,214 | $4,296 | -$82 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$304 | $10,565 | $10,869 | -$304 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$912 | $9,554 | $10,466 | -$912 | OK |
| State and local taxesGap +$171 | $8,000 | $7,829 | +$171 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Oklahoma or West Virginia?
Oklahoma collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.01% vs 8.85%. Oklahoma has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; West Virginia has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | West VirginiaWV | GapOK−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.84 pts · US 8.74% | 7.01%#9 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | -1.84 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.07 pts · US 5.46% | 4.75%#20 of 50 | 4.82%#21 of 50 | -0.07 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.3 pts · US 1.02% | 0.85%#25 of 50 | 0.55%#8 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.47 pts · US 6.66% | 9.06%#45 of 50 | 6.59%#20 of 50 | +2.47 pts | 6.66% | WV |
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 West Virginia?
Homes cost 24% more in Oklahoma: a typical home value of $223,261 in Oklahoma vs $179,496 in West Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $65,093 of income in Oklahoma and $47,071 in West Virginia; the median household earns $66,148 and $60,798.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | West VirginiaWV | GapOK−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$43,765 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $223,261#4 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$43,765+24% | $368,697 | WV |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.3 pts · US +1.2% | +2.8%#19 of 50 | +3.1%#16 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$159 (+13%) · US $1,948 | $1,388#8 of 50 | $1,229#3 of 50 | +$159+13% | $1,948 | WV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$18,022 (+38%) · US $100,006 | $65,093#7 of 50 | $47,071#1 of 50 | +$18,022+38% | $100,006 | WV |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+13%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#6 of 50 | 3x#1 of 50 | +0.4x+13% | 4.6x | WV |
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 | WV | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,149 | $924 |
| Income needed vs. median | -2% | -23% |
| Five-year change | +26.5% | +22.5% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Warm |
| Largest metro | Oklahoma City | Charleston |
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 West Virginia?
Oklahoma pays more: median household income $66,148 vs $60,798, with unemployment at 3.4% in Oklahoma and 4.2% in West Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Oklahoma's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and West Virginia's in 0.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | West VirginiaWV | GapOK−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$5,350 (+9%) · US $80,903 | $66,148#45 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$5,350+9% | $80,903 | OK |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#14 of 50 | 4.2%#31 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 3.95% | OK |
| GDP per capitaGap +$13,644 (+32%) · US $64,333 | $55,709#39 of 50 | $42,065#49 of 50 | +$13,644+32% | $64,333 | OK |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#34 of 50 | +0.5%#46 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.91% | OK |
| Population growthGap +0.69 pts · US +0.51% | +0.62%#18 of 50 | -0.07%#48 of 50 | +0.69 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 | WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $223,792$196,937 in Tulsa | $191,792$172,613 in Charleston | OK |
| Lawyers | $150,260$132,229 in Oklahoma City | $123,618$111,256 in Charleston | OK |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $106,759$93,948 in Oklahoma City | $88,299$79,469 in Charleston | OK |
| Software Developers | $132,359$116,476 in Oklahoma City | $115,314$103,783 in Charleston | OK |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,376$90,091 in Oklahoma City | $89,258$80,332 in Charleston | OK |
| Registered Nurses | $86,852$76,430 in Tulsa | $73,760$66,384 in Charleston | OK |
| Civil Engineers | $95,295$83,860 in Oklahoma City | $82,352$74,117 in Charleston | OK |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $75,697$66,613 in Oklahoma City | $62,826$56,543 in Charleston | OK |
| Secondary School Teachers | $63,976$56,299 in Oklahoma City | $54,044$48,640 in Charleston | OK |
| Construction Laborers | $44,757$39,386 in Oklahoma City | $35,598$32,038 in Charleston | OK |
| Accountants & Auditors | $77,585$68,275 in Tulsa | $68,489$61,640 in Charleston | OK |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $55,645$48,968 in Tulsa | $46,768$42,091 in Charleston | OK |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $49,615$43,661 in Oklahoma City | $40,844$36,760 in Charleston | OK |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $57,591$50,680 in Tulsa | $48,929$44,036 in Charleston | OK |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $68,550$60,324 in Tulsa | $60,696$54,626 in Charleston | OK |
| Electricians | $60,794$53,499 in Oklahoma City | $53,664$48,298 in Charleston | OK |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,273$46,880 in Oklahoma City | $47,229$42,506 in Charleston | OK |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,739$48,170 in Oklahoma City | $49,399$44,459 in Charleston | OK |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $33,001$29,041 in Tulsa | $28,247$25,422 in Charleston | OK |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $64,257$56,546 in Oklahoma City | $59,622$53,660 in Charleston | OK |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Oklahoma safer than West Virginia?
West Virginia is safer: 242 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 408 in Oklahoma (FBI). Property crime runs 1,814 and 1,053 per 100,000.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | West VirginiaWV | GapOK−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +166 (+69%) · US 328 | 408#39 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | +166+69% | 328 | WV |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +760 (+72%) · US 1,535 | 1,814#42 of 50 | 1,053#9 of 50 | +760+72% | 1,535 | WV |
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
- Bridgeport, WV74 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Oklahoma or West Virginia?
West Virginia scores higher for education (#43 of 50 vs #48), with high school graduation rates of 80% and 91.2%. Oklahoma scores higher for health (#48 vs #49); life expectancy is 73.8 years in Oklahoma and 72.2 in West Virginia.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | West VirginiaWV | GapOK−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 265#45 of 50 | 261#49 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 249#47 of 50 | 247#48 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -11.2 pts · US 85.62% | 80%#46 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -11.2 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| Life expectancyGap +1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#46 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +1.6 yrs | 76.9 | OK |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.6 pts · US 34.03% | 36.8%#37 of 50 | 41.4%#50 of 50 | -4.6 pts | 34.03% | OK |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +5.7 pts · US 7.6% | 11.5%#48 of 50 | 5.8%#15 of 50 | +5.7 pts | 7.6% | WV |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+15%) · US 38.8 | 46#49 of 50 | 40#26 of 50 | +6 pts+15% | 38.8 | WV |
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
- Wheeling, WVeducation score 98
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, West Virginia #43. Health: Oklahoma #48, West Virginia #49.
Are more people moving from Oklahoma to West Virginia, or from West Virginia to Oklahoma?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 0 people (±0) moving from Oklahoma to West Virginia and 116 (±188) 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 | West VirginiaWV | GapOK−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +24,697 (+118%) | 45,591#30 of 50 | 20,894#43 of 50 | +24,697+118% | OK |
| Households moving outIRSGap +20,162 (+101%) | 40,177#19 of 50 | 20,015#10 of 50 | +20,162+101% | WV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +4,535 | +5,414#13 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | +4,535 | OK |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.8 | +1.3#17 of 50 | +0.5#22 of 50 | +0.8 | OK |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$519 (+1%) | $59,003#46 of 50 | $58,484#47 of 50 | +$519+1% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$66 (0%) | $60,448#48 of 50 | $60,514#47 of 50 | -$660% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.1 | +3.5#14 of 50 | +3.6#13 of 50 | -0.1 | Even |
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 West Virginia?
Oklahoma is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business; West Virginia is the better fit for families and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | West VirginiaWV | GapOK−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +10 places | #46score 47.3 | #36score 57.5 | +10 places | WV |
| RetireesGap +3 places | #41score 53.7 | #38score 54.5 | +3 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap -11 places | #21score 54.6 | #32score 49 | -11 places | OK |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -15 places | #26score 53.7 | #41score 41.9 | -15 places | OK |
| Small BusinessGap -11 places | #28score 53.4 | #39score 46.1 | -11 places | OK |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +4 places | #42score 29.3 | #38score 31.4 | +4 places | WV |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesWest Virginia (#36 vs #46)
- RetireesEven (#41 vs #38)
- Remote WorkersOklahoma (#21 vs #32)
- Young ProfessionalsOklahoma (#26 vs #41)
- Small BusinessOklahoma (#28 vs #39)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWest Virginia (#38 vs #42)
Which cities stand out in Oklahoma and West Virginia?
Oklahoma has 20 tracked cities and West Virginia has 20; the largest are Oklahoma City and Charleston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | OklahomaOK | West VirginiaWV |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Oklahoma City697,125 people | Charleston47,421 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bixbyscore 66.9 | Bridgeportscore 62.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bixby80 violent per 100K | Bridgeport74 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Stillwatercost index 83.6 | Fairmontcost index 87 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Tulsawalkability 12.4 of 20 | Clarksburgwalkability 10.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Ardmorecounty median AQI 32 | Clarksburgcounty median AQI 33 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Bixby95% graduation rate | Wheeling98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Jenksmedian income $111,004 | Cheat Lakemedian income $117,014 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Bixby+2.9% growth | Martinsburg+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Oklahoma and West Virginia compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Oklahoma carries AA credit rating and West Virginia AA-.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | OklahomaOK | West VirginiaWV | GapOK−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +44 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#11 of 50 | 8%#44 of 50 | +44 pts | 29.34% | OK |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -2.1 (-6%) · US 29.6 | 34.6#32 of 50 | 36.7#34 of 50 | -2.1-6% | 29.6 | OK |
| Public land shareGap -9.8 pts · US 17.16% | 2.2%#43 of 50 | 12%#19 of 50 | -9.8 pts | 17.16% | WV |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3.8 min · US 25.2 min | 22.7 min#12 of 50 | 26.5 min#34 of 50 | -3.8 min | 25.2 min | OK |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.3%#47 of 50 | 0.6%#38 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.1 pts · US 12.28% | 8.9%#42 of 50 | 8.8%#43 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.7 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#35 of 50 | 89.4%#49 of 50 | +2.7 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 | West VirginiaWV | GapOK−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#38 of 50 | 85#43 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | OK |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -16.1 pts · US 12.39% | 9.2%#30 of 50 | 25.3%#3 of 50 | -16.1 pts | 12.39% | WV |
| Pension funded ratioGap +6 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#31 of 50 | 66%#38 of 50 | +6 pts | 74.3% | OK |
| State debt per capitaGap +$80 (+3%) · US $3,506 | $2,560#21 of 50 | $2,480#20 of 50 | +$80+3% | $3,506 | WV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.7 pts · US +4.66% | +5.8%#18 of 50 | +8.5%#5 of 50 | -2.7 pts | +4.66% | WV |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Oklahoma AA, West Virginia 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 West Virginia: 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 19 of 51, West Virginia on 18, and 14 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | OklahomaOK | West VirginiaWV | GapOK−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,357,141 (+133%) · US 6.8 million | 4.1 million#28 of 50 | 1.8 million#39 of 50 | +2,357,141+133% | 6.8 million | OK |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,350 (+9%) · US $80,903 | $66,148#45 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$5,350+9% | $80,903 | OK |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#14 of 50 | 4.2%#31 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 3.95% | OK |
| Population growthGap +0.69 pts · US +0.51% | +0.62%#18 of 50 | -0.07%#48 of 50 | +0.69 pts | +0.51% | OK |
| GDP per capitaGap +$13,644 (+32%) · US $64,333 | $55,709#39 of 50 | $42,065#49 of 50 | +$13,644+32% | $64,333 | OK |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#34 of 50 | +0.5%#46 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.91% | OK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +166 (+69%) · US 328 | 408#39 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | +166+69% | 328 | WV |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +760 (+72%) · US 1,535 | 1,814#42 of 50 | 1,053#9 of 50 | +760+72% | 1,535 | WV |
| High school graduation rateGap -11.2 pts · US 85.62% | 80%#46 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -11.2 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 237 | 233#44 of 50 | 232#46 of 50 | +1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 265#45 of 50 | 261#49 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 214 | 207#46 of 50 | 206#48 of 50 | +1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 249#47 of 50 | 247#48 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#46 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +1.6 yrs | 76.9 | OK |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.6 pts · US 34.03% | 36.8%#37 of 50 | 41.4%#50 of 50 | -4.6 pts | 34.03% | OK |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +5.7 pts · US 7.6% | 11.5%#48 of 50 | 5.8%#15 of 50 | +5.7 pts | 7.6% | WV |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$43,765 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $223,261#4 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$43,765+24% | $368,697 | WV |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.3 pts · US +1.2% | +2.8%#19 of 50 | +3.1%#16 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$159 (+13%) · US $1,948 | $1,388#8 of 50 | $1,229#3 of 50 | +$159+13% | $1,948 | WV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$18,022 (+38%) · US $100,006 | $65,093#7 of 50 | $47,071#1 of 50 | +$18,022+38% | $100,006 | WV |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.7 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 87.8#4 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | -1.7 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+13%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#6 of 50 | 3x#1 of 50 | +0.4x+13% | 4.6x | WV |
| Residential electricity priceGap -2.29¢ (-15%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.12¢/kWh#9 of 50 | 15.41¢/kWh#27 of 50 | -2.29¢-15% | 17.84¢/kWh | OK |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.19 (+1%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.99/Mcf#21 of 50 | $13.80/Mcf#19 of 50 | +$0.19+1% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.29 (-9%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.04/gal#10 of 50 | $3.33/gal#37 of 50 | -$0.29-9% | $3.32/gal | OK |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.7 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 93.8#5 of 50 | 96.5#27 of 50 | -2.7 pts-3% | 100 | OK |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,673 (+18%) · US $15,633 | $11,012#9 of 50 | $9,339#4 of 50 | +$1,673+18% | $15,633 | WV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.84 pts · US 8.74% | 7.01%#9 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | -1.84 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.07 pts · US 5.46% | 4.75%#20 of 50 | 4.82%#21 of 50 | -0.07 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.3 pts · US 1.02% | 0.85%#25 of 50 | 0.55%#8 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.47 pts · US 6.66% | 9.06%#45 of 50 | 6.59%#20 of 50 | +2.47 pts | 6.66% | WV |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#38 of 50 | 85#43 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | OK |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -16.1 pts · US 12.39% | 9.2%#30 of 50 | 25.3%#3 of 50 | -16.1 pts | 12.39% | WV |
| Pension funded ratioGap +6 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#31 of 50 | 66%#38 of 50 | +6 pts | 74.3% | OK |
| State debt per capitaGap +$80 (+3%) · US $3,506 | $2,560#21 of 50 | $2,480#20 of 50 | +$80+3% | $3,506 | WV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.7 pts · US +4.66% | +5.8%#18 of 50 | +8.5%#5 of 50 | -2.7 pts | +4.66% | WV |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+15%) · US 38.8 | 46#49 of 50 | 40#26 of 50 | +6 pts+15% | 38.8 | WV |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +44 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#11 of 50 | 8%#44 of 50 | +44 pts | 29.34% | OK |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -2.1 (-6%) · US 29.6 | 34.6#32 of 50 | 36.7#34 of 50 | -2.1-6% | 29.6 | OK |
| Public land shareGap -9.8 pts · US 17.16% | 2.2%#43 of 50 | 12%#19 of 50 | -9.8 pts | 17.16% | WV |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3.8 min · US 25.2 min | 22.7 min#12 of 50 | 26.5 min#34 of 50 | -3.8 min | 25.2 min | OK |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.3%#47 of 50 | 0.6%#38 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.1 pts · US 12.28% | 8.9%#42 of 50 | 8.8%#43 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.7 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#35 of 50 | 89.4%#49 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 92.67% | OK |
| Households moving inIRSGap +24,697 (+118%) · US 78,682 | 45,591#30 of 50 | 20,894#43 of 50 | +24,697+118% | 78,682 | OK |
| Households moving outIRSGap +20,162 (+101%) · US 78,715 | 40,177#19 of 50 | 20,015#10 of 50 | +20,162+101% | 78,715 | WV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +4,535 · US -33 | +5,414#13 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | +4,535 | -33 | OK |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.8 · US +0.4 | +1.3#17 of 50 | +0.5#22 of 50 | +0.8 | +0.4 | OK |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$519 (+1%) · US $77,690 | $59,003#46 of 50 | $58,484#47 of 50 | +$519+1% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$66 (0%) · US $77,024 | $60,448#48 of 50 | $60,514#47 of 50 | -$660% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.1 · US +1.1 | +3.5#14 of 50 | +3.6#13 of 50 | -0.1 | +1.1 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$5,787 · US -$11,758 | +$5,197#6 of 50 | +$10,984#2 of 50 | -$5,787 | -$11,758 | WV |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$1,941 · US +$31,418 | +$37,262#5 of 50 | +$39,203#2 of 50 | -$1,941 | +$31,418 | WV |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$1,712 · US +$35,970 | +$42,644#5 of 50 | +$44,356#3 of 50 | -$1,712 | +$35,970 | WV |
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 West Virginia numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Oklahoma (43, #43) and West Virginia (42.8, #44) are within 2 composite points. Oklahoma leads 5 categories, West Virginia leads 3, and 3 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 87.8 in Oklahoma and 89.5 in West Virginia, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $223,261 and $179,496. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$5,197 a year after typical costs in Oklahoma and +$10,984 in West Virginia.
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); West Virginia collects 8.85% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Oklahoma pays more
Median household income is $66,148 in Oklahoma and $60,798 in West Virginia, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4.2%. Violent crime runs 408 per 100,000 residents in Oklahoma and 242 in West Virginia.
Moves between the two run about even
0 people moved from Oklahoma to West Virginia and 116 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
West Virginia is the better fit for families
For families, Oklahoma ranks #46 of 50 and West Virginia #36; for retirees, Oklahoma ranks #41 and West Virginia #38.
Oklahoma vs West Virginia: frequently asked questions
Is Oklahoma or West Virginia better to live in?
Oklahoma ranks #43 of 50 overall and West Virginia #44 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 89.5); Oklahoma has a 1.8-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 0.2 points apart, too close to call: Oklahoma leads 5 of 11 categories, West Virginia leads 3.
Is Oklahoma cheaper than West Virginia?
Oklahoma and West Virginia cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 87.8 vs 89.5 (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 +$10,984 in West Virginia. The typical home value is $223,261 in Oklahoma and $179,496 in West Virginia.
Which has lower taxes, Oklahoma or West Virginia?
Oklahoma has the lower tax burden: 7.01% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.85% in West Virginia. Oklahoma's top income tax rate is 4.75%, its effective property tax rate 0.85% and its combined sales tax 9.06%; West Virginia's are 4.82%, 0.55% and 6.59%.
Is Oklahoma safer than West Virginia?
West Virginia is safer: 242 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 408 in Oklahoma, per the FBI. Oklahoma ranks #39 of 50 for violent crime and West Virginia #19. Property crime is 1,814 per 100,000 in Oklahoma and 1,053 in West Virginia. The safest tracked cities are Bixby, OK, and Bridgeport, WV.
Are homes more expensive in Oklahoma or West Virginia?
Homes are 24% more expensive in Oklahoma: the typical home value is $223,261 in Oklahoma and $179,496 in West Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $65,093 of household income in Oklahoma and $47,071 in West Virginia, against median incomes of $66,148 and $60,798.
Do people earn more in Oklahoma or West Virginia?
Oklahoma pays more: median household income is $66,148 vs $60,798 in West Virginia, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Oklahoma and 4.2% in West Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Oklahoma's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and West Virginia's in 0.
Are more people moving from Oklahoma to West Virginia or from West Virginia to Oklahoma?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 0 people (±0) moving from Oklahoma to West Virginia and 116 (±188) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Oklahoma or West Virginia?
Oklahoma and West Virginia are close for retirees: #41 and #38 of 50 on the retiree index. Oklahoma has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; West Virginia has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$42,644 left after typical costs in Oklahoma and +$44,356 in West Virginia.
Which is better for families, Oklahoma or West Virginia?
West Virginia is the better fit for families: #36 of 50 on the families index vs #46 for Oklahoma. Center-based infant care costs $11,012 a year in Oklahoma and $9,339 in West Virginia. High school graduation rates are 80% and 91.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$5,197 after typical costs in Oklahoma and +$10,984 in West Virginia.
Which has better schools, Oklahoma or West Virginia?
West Virginia scores higher for education: #43 of 50 vs #48 for Oklahoma. Eighth graders average 265 in NAEP math in Oklahoma and 261 in West Virginia. High school graduation rates are 80% in Oklahoma and 91.2% in West Virginia, and the education category scores are 30.2 and 45.1 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Bixby and Wheeling have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
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