Cost of Living in Tulsa County, Oklahoma
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Tulsa County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Tulsa's urban costs squeeze moderate incomes
Tulsa County's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio approaches the affordability red line, where renters devote nearly one-fifth of paychecks to rent alone. At $1,060/month against a median income of $67,317, Tulsa presents the price of urban proximity—higher rents that strain even moderate incomes.
Above Oklahoma's average rent burden
Tulsa County's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Oklahoma's state average of 17.0% by 1.9 percentage points, reflecting the urban-area premium. This positions Tulsa among the state's pricier rental markets, though still within the manageable range for employed households.
Urban pricing with strong income base
Tulsa County's $1,060 monthly rent ranks among the region's highest, matching Rogers County at $1,018 as Oklahoma's two urban rental markets. Yet Tulsa's median income ($67,317) exceeds most panhandle counties, providing slightly more cushion against these elevated costs.
Renters pressed, owners stretched thin
Renters spend $1,060/month (18.9% of income) while homeowners pay $1,169/month (20.8% of income) on median household earnings of $67,317. Tulsa shows unusual pressure on homeowners—at 20.8%, ownership costs near the affordability ceiling, suggesting strong demand for scarce housing.
Tulsa County for urban seekers with means
If you're earning near Tulsa's $67,317 median and seek urban amenities, your 18.9% rent burden remains manageable—though higher than rural alternatives like Roger Mills (13.6%). Compare these costs against the job opportunities and cultural benefits Tulsa offers to determine whether the urban premium justifies your housing spend.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Tulsa County
Rent Burden
18.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,571
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.8%
of gross income
The median home in Tulsa County may be a stretch
Median home value is $213,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,704 vs. your max of $1,571.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.