Cost of Living: Norman, OK vs Columbia, MO (2026)

Norman

Oklahoma
76
VS

Columbia

Missouri
80

Norman is 4% cheaper than Columbia.

$1,064/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,067/mo ≈ Same
$65,060/yr ≈ Same
Median Income
$64,488/yr ≈ Same
$239,300 ↓ 11%
Home Value
$268,300 ↑ 12%
$1,121/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,114/mo ≈ Same
128,714
Population
127,200

Tax Comparison

4.75%
Income Tax
4.95%
4.5%
Sales Tax
4.225%
0.9%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

19.6%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norman, OK and Columbia, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $572/year higher in Norman. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norman is $239,300 compared to $268,300 in Columbia.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Norman vs Columbia — common questions

Is Norman or Columbia cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Norman is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 80 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Norman and Columbia?
Median rent in Norman is $1,064/month and in Columbia it's $1,067/month — a difference of $3/month.
Which city has higher income, Norman or Columbia?
Median household income is $65,060 in Norman and $64,488 in Columbia. Median household income is $572/year higher in Norman.
How do taxes compare between Oklahoma and Missouri?
Oklahoma has 4.75% income tax, 4.5% sales tax, and 0.9% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Norman or Columbia?
It depends on your priorities. Norman has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,064/mo, while Columbia has a cost index of 80 with rent of $1,067/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Norman details → View Columbia details →