Cost of Living: Lincoln, NE vs Norman, OK (2026)

Lincoln

Nebraska
77
VS

Norman

Oklahoma
76

Lincoln and Norman have a similar cost of living.

$1,045/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,064/mo ↑ 2%
$69,991/yr ↑ 8%
Median Income
$65,060/yr ↓ 7%
$248,200 ↑ 4%
Home Value
$239,300 ↓ 4%
$1,140/mo ↑ 2%
Owner Costs
$1,121/mo ↓ 2%
291,932
Population
128,714

Tax Comparison

6.64%
Income Tax
4.75%
5.5%
State Sales Tax
4.5%
1.73%
Property Tax
0.9%

Affordability

17.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lincoln, NE and Norman, OK, the overall cost of living indices are 77 and 76 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $4,931/year higher in Lincoln. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lincoln is $248,200 compared to $239,300 in Norman.

Oklahoma has a lower income tax rate, making Norman slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lincoln vs Norman — common questions

Is Lincoln or Norman cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Norman is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 77 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Lincoln and Norman?
Median rent in Lincoln is $1,045/month and in Norman it's $1,064/month — a difference of $19/month.
Which city has higher income, Lincoln or Norman?
Median household income is $69,991 in Lincoln and $65,060 in Norman. Median household income is $4,931/year higher in Lincoln.
How do taxes compare between Nebraska and Oklahoma?
Nebraska has 6.64% income tax, 5.5% sales tax, and 1.73% property tax. Oklahoma has 4.75% income tax, 4.5% sales tax, and 0.9% property tax.
Should I move to Lincoln or Norman?
It depends on your priorities. Lincoln has a cost index of 77 with median rent of $1,045/mo, while Norman has a cost index of 76 with rent of $1,064/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Lincoln details → View Norman details →

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