Oklahoma vs Arkansas: Healthcare Job Market Comparison
Rural South Central healthcare. Both offer high nursing demand with lower cost of living than coastal states.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Oklahoma | Arkansas |
|---|---|---|
| Avg RN salary (BLS May 2024) | $73,180 | $69,260 |
| Cost of living (100 = US avg) | 86.1 | 90.9 |
| State income tax (top rate) | 4.75% | 4.4% |
Salary figures are approximate, drawn from public sources including BLS.
Notable Health Systems
Oklahoma
- • INTEGRIS Health
- • OU Health
- • SSM Health
Arkansas
- • UAMS
- • Baptist Health
- • Washington Regional
Frequently Asked Questions
Which state pays nurses more, Oklahoma or Arkansas?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), registered nurses in Oklahoma earn an average of $73,180, compared to $69,260 in Arkansas. The gap is roughly $3,920 per year before adjusting for cost of living.
How does the cost of living compare between Oklahoma and Arkansas?
Using the MERIC Q4 2024 cost-of-living index (100 = national average), Oklahoma is 86.1 and Arkansas is 90.9. Oklahoma (86.1) is the more affordable of the two, while Arkansas (90.9) is more expensive. Housing is typically the largest driver of these differences.
Which state has a more favorable tax environment for healthcare providers?
Oklahoma has a top state income tax rate of 4.75%, while Arkansas's top rate is 4.4%. Always factor in property tax, sales tax, and local taxes before making a relocation decision. States with no income tax often offset through higher sales or property taxes.
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