Oklahoma, known as the "Sooner State", is one of the cheapest states in America with housing 37% below national average. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Sooner State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Oklahoma for a single person earning the median income of $55,800/year:
Each category shows how Oklahoma compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Oklahoma.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Oklahoma.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Oklahoma:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Oklahoma, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Oklahoma is $215,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $850/month. With a housing cost index of 63, Oklahoma housing is 37% cheaper than the national average.
Housing in Oklahoma is a genuine advantage. The low cost of housing frees up income for savings, investments, and discretionary spending that residents of expensive states simply cannot afford.
Oklahoma has a state income tax rate of 4.75%. On the median household income of $55,800, you will pay approximately $2,651/year in state income tax ($221/month). This is below the national average — a tax advantage for Oklahoma residents.
The average single person in Oklahoma spends approximately $375/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $938-$1,125/month. The food cost index of 95 means groceries in Oklahoma are 5% below the national average.
Gas prices in Oklahoma average $2.9/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $1,740/year in fuel costs.
Oklahoma healthcare costs are 8% below the national average (index: 92). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Oklahoma is approximately $5,520 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Oklahoma averages $750/month ($9,000/year). This is below the national average, making Oklahoma more family-friendly from a financial perspective. Many families in Oklahoma find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Oklahoma is an excellent choice for anyone prioritizing affordability. Your dollar stretches 14% further here than the national average. The trade-off may include fewer big-city amenities in some areas, but cities like Oklahoma City and Tulsa offer a good balance of affordability and quality of life.
See all Oklahoma financial calculators:
Oklahoma (OK) has a cost of living index of 86, meaning it is 14% cheaper than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 63. The median rent is $850/month and the median home price is $215,000. Oklahoma ranks #4 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Oklahoma is approximately $72,540/year ($6,045/month). For a family of four, aim for $122,760/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($375/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Oklahoma is $55,800.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Oklahoma is approximately $850/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,148/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman are the most popular metro areas. Housing in Oklahoma is affordable compared to the national average.
Oklahoma is an excellent choice for affordability. With a cost of living 14% below the national average and median rent of just $850/month, your money goes significantly further here. Top cities include Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman.
The most affordable areas in Oklahoma are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Oklahoma, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Oklahoma City metro) and more affordable areas. Broken Arrow and Edmond tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Oklahoma for a single person is approximately $375 ($938 for a family of four). Oklahoma food costs are 5% below the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Oklahoma is approximately $135. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $297/month. Oklahoma utilities are 2% below the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Oklahoma has a state income tax rate of 4.75%. On the median household income of $55,800, that is approximately $2,651/year in state income tax. This is below the national average — a tax advantage.