Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
14% cheaper
Oklahoma City is 14% more affordable than Durham. A $75,000 salary in Durham is equivalent to $64,604 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 · Oklahoma salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Durham has a housing index of 104 while Oklahoma City sits at 68 (national average = 100). The median home in Durham costs $340,000 compared to $195,000 in Oklahoma City, a difference of $145,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Durham versus $1,000 in Oklahoma City.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Durham scores 100 while Oklahoma City scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Durham (108) are higher than Oklahoma City (92).
Median household income in Durham is $57,738 compared to $55,458 in Oklahoma City. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Oklahoma City.
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