Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
9% cheaper
Tulsa is 9% more affordable than Lexington. A $75,000 salary in Lexington is equivalent to $68,548 in Tulsa.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Kentucky salaries · Oklahoma salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Lexington has a housing index of 82 while Tulsa sits at 63 (national average = 100). The median home in Lexington costs $245,000 compared to $175,000 in Tulsa, a difference of $70,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Lexington versus $950 in Tulsa.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Lexington scores 96 while Tulsa scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Lexington (94) are higher than Tulsa (91).
Median household income in Lexington is $55,648 compared to $48,278 in Tulsa. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Tulsa.
Amazon affiliate links