Oklahoma Salaries 2025
Energy state with exceptional affordability
Median Household Income
Oklahoma Salary Overview 2025
Oklahoma offers some of America's most affordable living combined with genuine economic opportunity in energy, aerospace, and healthcare. The state's median household income of $56,000 is below the national average, but Oklahoma's cost of living (86 index, 14% below average) creates purchasing power that rivals higher-income states.
Oklahoma City and Tulsa anchor the economy with energy company headquarters (Devon, Continental Resources, ONEOK), aerospace (Tinker AFB, American Airlines maintenance), and healthcare. The energy industry creates boom-and-bust cycles, but diversification has improved stability.
The state's flat 4.75% top income tax rate is competitive, and property taxes are among the nation's lowest. For those seeking maximum affordability with legitimate career opportunities, Oklahoma offers compelling value. For comprehensive salary data, see salary trends 2025.
Oklahoma Salary Snapshot
| Metric | Oklahoma | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Median Household Income | $56,000 | $74,580 |
| Mean Household Income | $74,000 | $97,300 |
| Per Capita Income | $30,500 | $37,638 |
| Cost of Living Index | 86 | 100 |
| Top Income Tax Rate | 4.75% | Varies |
Salaries by Oklahoma Region
Oklahoma City Metro
Median Household Income: $62,000
OKC is the state capital and largest metro with energy headquarters, aerospace, and healthcare. Devon Energy, Continental Resources, and Chesapeake Energy (emerged from bankruptcy) maintain presence. Tinker AFB is the state's largest employer. Software engineers $70,000-$115,000, petroleum engineers $90,000-$150,000, aerospace $75,000-$130,000.
OKC has invested heavily in downtown (Bricktown, Thunder NBA team) and offers genuine urban amenities. Housing is remarkably affordable ($240,000 median).
Tulsa
Median Household Income: $55,000
Tulsa has energy heritage and has attracted remote workers through the Tulsa Remote program ($10,000 to relocate). ONEOK, Williams Companies, and energy service companies create employment. American Airlines maintains massive maintenance facility. Revitalized downtown and arts scene. Very affordable ($220,000 median).
Norman
Median Household Income: $58,000
University of Oklahoma creates education and research employment. National Weather Center adds unique federal employment. College-town atmosphere south of OKC.
| Region | Median Income | Median Home | Key Industries |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma City | $62,000 | $240,000 | Energy, Aerospace, Healthcare |
| Tulsa | $55,000 | $220,000 | Energy, Aviation, Healthcare |
| Norman | $58,000 | $250,000 | Education, Weather Research |
Top Paying Industries in Oklahoma
Oil & Gas
Oklahoma is a top-10 oil-producing state with major headquarters in OKC and Tulsa. Petroleum engineers $90,000-$160,000, geologists $75,000-$130,000, landmen $60,000-$120,000. Industry is cyclical with oil prices but core employment remains substantial.
Aerospace & Defense
Tinker AFB is Oklahoma's largest single-site employer with 26,000+ workers. American Airlines maintenance hub in Tulsa employs 5,500+. Boeing and aerospace suppliers add employment. Engineers $75,000-$130,000, technicians $45,000-$75,000, cleared positions command premiums.
Healthcare
INTEGRIS, OU Medicine, St. Francis, and regional systems serve the state. Physicians $250,000-$400,000+, nurses $55,000-$75,000. Rural areas offer significant incentives.
| Industry | Entry Level | Mid-Career | Senior Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petroleum Engineering | $80,000 | $115,000 | $160,000+ |
| Aerospace Engineering | $65,000 | $95,000 | $135,000+ |
| Healthcare (Physicians) | $250,000 | $320,000 | $400,000+ |
| Software Engineering | $55,000 | $80,000 | $115,000+ |
Oklahoma Tax & Cost Analysis
Oklahoma's top rate of 4.75% is moderate. Property taxes average 0.87%—below national average.
| Expense | Oklahoma | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Housing Index | 68 | 100 |
| Median Home Price | $195,000 | $420,000 |
| Median Rent (2BR) | $950 | $1,400 |
| Groceries Index | 92 | 100 |
A $60,000 salary in Oklahoma provides equivalent purchasing power to approximately $85,000 in Denver or $110,000 in Los Angeles.
Highest Paying Jobs in Oklahoma 2025
| Occupation | Average Salary | Top 10% Earn |
|---|---|---|
| Physicians/Surgeons | $270,000 | $400,000+ |
| Petroleum Engineers | $125,000 | $175,000+ |
| Dentists | $160,000 | $245,000+ |
| IT Directors | $115,000 | $155,000+ |
| Aerospace Engineers | $100,000 | $140,000+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Oklahoma really that affordable?
Yes. Housing costs are 30-40% below national average. A family earning $70,000 can own a nice home and live comfortably. Oklahoma offers some of America's best value for affordable living with genuine career opportunities.
What about the Tulsa Remote program?
Tulsa Remote offers $10,000 to remote workers who relocate. Combined with low costs, it's attracted thousands. Participants must work remotely for company outside Oklahoma. Good option for those seeking affordable living with external income.
How stable is the energy industry?
Cyclical. Oil price swings create booms and busts. However, headquarters operations are more stable than field work. Oklahoma has diversified beyond energy, but it remains significant. Healthcare and aerospace provide more stability.