Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
13% cheaper
Oklahoma City is 13% more affordable than Charlotte. A $75,000 salary in Charlotte is equivalent to $65,250 in Oklahoma City.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: North Carolina salaries ยท Oklahoma salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Charlotte has a housing index of 99 while Oklahoma City sits at 68 (national average = 100). The median home in Charlotte costs $330,000 compared to $195,000 in Oklahoma City, a difference of $135,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Charlotte versus $1,000 in Oklahoma City.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Charlotte scores 101 while Oklahoma City scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Charlotte (105) are higher than Oklahoma City (92).
Median household income in Charlotte is $62,308 compared to $55,458 in Oklahoma City. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Oklahoma City.
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