Oklahoma City vs. Tulsa: Which Oklahoma Metro Scores Higher?
By Sharon Ben-Moshe · October 12, 2026
Oklahoma's two largest cities offer affordable living alongside differing suburban school options. This comparative guide contrasts Oklahoma City and Tulsa ZIP codes on safety, test scores, and price.
Oklahoma City and Tulsa represent the primary economic centers of Oklahoma. Separated by ninety miles of Interstate 44, both cities provide affordable housing, but diverge in neighborhood layout, school district performance, and industrial base.
Comparing Oklahoma City and Tulsa ZIP codes
Data is benchmarked against Oklahoma state averages using National Center for Education Statistics reports and local county deed filings.
- South Oklahoma City (73170): Scores 45 overall with a 68 school score, 25 crime score, and a median home price of $288,627.
- Midtown Oklahoma City (73103): Scores 40 overall with a 57 school score, 25 crime score, and a median home price of $348,918.
- South Tulsa and Creek Turnpike (74137): Scores 38 overall with a 53 school score, 25 crime score, and a median home price of $438,792.
- Southeast Tulsa (74133): Scores 38 overall with a 52 school score, 25 crime score, and a median property price of $304,071 with median rent of $1,172.
Housing affordability and public services
Both metros remain accessible by national standards, with median housing costs below $350,000 across most subdivisions. Records from the U.S. Census Bureau show steady household growth in the Moore and Jenks school districts that serve each city's southern suburbs.
Evaluating Oklahoma moves
Movers can compare Oklahoma City and Tulsa neighborhoods directly using our Oklahoma compare tool or review how NeighborScore works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city scores higher overall, Oklahoma City or Tulsa?
Top ZIPs in Oklahoma City like 73170 score 45 overall, while South Tulsa ZIP 74137 scores 38, giving OKC a modest edge in school scores.
How do home prices compare between OKC and Tulsa?
South OKC 73170 has a median home price of $288,627, compared to $438,792 in South Tulsa's 74137.