Oklahoma vs Utah: Paycheck Calculator Comparison
VSDetailed comparison of tax rates, cost of living, and quality of life
📌 Utah comes out ahead by approximately $113 annually at $75,000 income (4.85% compared to 5.00%). That said, Oklahoma pulls in residents attracted to outdoor recreation. The choice often comes down to whether cultural amenities or direct tax savings matters more to your situation.
Oklahoma and Utah differ notably on income tax: 5.00% versus 4.85%. The practical impact at $75,000 runs about $113 per year. Most people considering a move look at this alongside cost of living, job market, and lifestyle factors.
🔑 Key Differences
- **State income tax**: Oklahoma at 5.00% vs Utah at 4.85%
- **Annual savings** (on $75,000): Utah saves you ~$113
- **Tax system**: Both use progressive brackets
- **Deductions**: Standard federal deductions apply, state variations exist
- **Local taxes**: Check your specific county/city as rates vary within states
Tax Comparison
| Tax Type | Oklahoma | Utah |
|---|---|---|
| State Income Tax | 0.5% - 5% | 4.85% |
| 💰 On $40,000 Salary |
State Tax: $1,100
Take Home: $38,900
+$840
|
State Tax: $1,940
Take Home: $38,060
|
| 💰 On $60,000 Salary |
State Tax: $1,650
Take Home: $58,350
+$1,260
|
State Tax: $2,910
Take Home: $57,090
|
| 💰 On $100,000 Salary |
State Tax: $2,750
Take Home: $97,250
+$2,100
|
State Tax: $4,850
Take Home: $95,150
|
| Cost of Living | Oklahoma consistently ranks among America's most affordable states. Oklahoma City and Tulsa offer genuine metropolitan amenities with housing costs 50-60% below expensive markets. Quality homes in good neighborhoods typically sell for $150,000-250,000. Smaller Oklahoma cities provide even better value. Property taxes stay low statewide. No sales tax on groceries. Utilities, services, and general expenses all cost substantially less than national averages. The extreme affordability means moderate incomes support comfortable middle-class lifestyles. | Utah costs have increased substantially. Salt Lake City and surrounding areas command prices approaching expensive metros - median home prices often exceed $450,000-500,000. Provo-Orem follows similar trajectory. Smaller Utah cities offer better value. Property taxes stay moderate. Sales tax reaches 7-8%. The affordability advantage Utah once offered has compressed significantly as technology sector drives population growth and housing demand. |
Pros & Cons
Oklahoma
✓ Advantages
- Moderate state income tax (max 4.75%)
- Very low cost of living statewide
- Extremely affordable housing
- Strong energy and aerospace sectors
- No state tax on Social Security benefits
⚠ Considerations
- Lower average salaries than national average
- Tornado risk in certain areas
- Hot summers
- Limited public transportation
- Some rural areas lack economic opportunities
Utah
✓ Advantages
- Flat 4.65% income tax is simple and predictable
- Strong growing technology sector
- Beautiful outdoor recreation and skiing
- Lower unemployment rates
- Young educated workforce
⚠ Considerations
- Rising housing costs especially in Salt Lake area
- Air quality issues in winter months
- Limited public transportation
- Sales tax can be high
- Some areas face water scarcity
Bottom Line
Utah delivers measurable tax benefits—approximately $113 at $75,000. Oklahoma attracts talent despite higher rates, primarily through outdoor recreation. families demographics cluster in Utah, while skiers sectors find Oklahoma's strengths worth the premium.📢 Share This Comparison
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