countyscore
38.4
County Score
Safety 74Water Quality 70.4Income & Jobs 59.8

County Report Card

About Tulsa County, Oklahoma

Urban Strength with Modern Challenges

Tulsa County's composite score of 38.4 sits below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects the complexities of an urban center balancing high infrastructure with high environmental risk. It remains a key economic driver for the mid-continent region.

A Core Oklahoma Economic Hub

The score of 38.4 is slightly below the state average of 43.0, largely due to higher costs and environmental factors. However, the median household income of $67,317 is one of the highest in the state. It offers an urban lifestyle that contrasts sharply with the state's rural counties.

Public Safety and Water Quality

Tulsa County excels with a safety score of 74.0 and a water score of 70.4. This indicates high-quality municipal services and a reliable public infrastructure that rural counties lack. Residents also enjoy strong income potential, supported by a diverse and modern economy.

Climate Risk and Cost Pressures

A risk score of 2.1 is a major challenge, indicating high vulnerability to natural disasters like storms and flooding. The tax score of 37.2 and cost score of 21.6 reflect the higher price of urban living. Schools also score a low 11.7, suggesting a need for educational reform.

Suited for Career-Focused Urbanites

Tulsa County is best for professionals who want urban amenities, high-quality water, and strong safety services. While costs and climate risks are higher, the career opportunities are unmatched in the region. It is the go-to for those who value infrastructure and city life over rural solitude.

Score breakdown

Tax37.2Cost21.6Safety74Health33.4Schools11.7Income59.8Risk2.1Water70.4Weather56.9
🏛37.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠21.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼59.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡74
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤33.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓11.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡2.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧70.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤56.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨25.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱48.4
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

Rogers County
Oklahoma
32.5
Creek County
Oklahoma
36.4
Wagoner County
Oklahoma
41.5
Okmulgee County
Oklahoma
43.5
Pawnee County
Oklahoma
43.5
Mayes County
Oklahoma
37.8
Washington County
Oklahoma
42.2
Osage County
Oklahoma
34.6

Deep Dives

Tulsa County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Tulsa County

via TaxByCounty

Tulsa County's tax rate leads state

At 1.012%, Tulsa County's effective tax rate ranks in the top 10% nationally, significantly exceeding the U.S. median of 0.73%. The $2,161 median annual property tax approaches the national median of $2,690, making Tulsa one of Oklahoma's priciest tax jurisdictions.

Highest effective rate in Oklahoma

Tulsa County ranks 1st among Oklahoma's 77 counties with its 1.012% effective tax rate—55% higher than the state average of 0.652%. Residents pay $1,202 more annually than Oklahoma's state median of $959.

Significantly higher than adjacent counties

Tulsa's 1.012% rate substantially exceeds neighboring Rogers County (0.783%) and Wagoner County (around 0.75%), making it notably the highest-taxing area in northeast Oklahoma.

Median home valued at $213,500

On a median home value of $213,500, Tulsa County property owners pay $2,161 annually in property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages pay $2,315 per year; those without pay $1,892.

Appeal assessments to reduce burden

Tulsa County residents should closely scrutinize their property assessments, as overvaluation is especially costly at higher tax rates. Comparing your assessed value to recent comparable sales and filing a timely appeal could yield thousands in annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Tulsa County

via CostByCounty

Tulsa's urban costs squeeze moderate incomes

Tulsa County's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio approaches the affordability red line, where renters devote nearly one-fifth of paychecks to rent alone. At $1,060/month against a median income of $67,317, Tulsa presents the price of urban proximity—higher rents that strain even moderate incomes.

Above Oklahoma's average rent burden

Tulsa County's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Oklahoma's state average of 17.0% by 1.9 percentage points, reflecting the urban-area premium. This positions Tulsa among the state's pricier rental markets, though still within the manageable range for employed households.

Urban pricing with strong income base

Tulsa County's $1,060 monthly rent ranks among the region's highest, matching Rogers County at $1,018 as Oklahoma's two urban rental markets. Yet Tulsa's median income ($67,317) exceeds most panhandle counties, providing slightly more cushion against these elevated costs.

Renters pressed, owners stretched thin

Renters spend $1,060/month (18.9% of income) while homeowners pay $1,169/month (20.8% of income) on median household earnings of $67,317. Tulsa shows unusual pressure on homeowners—at 20.8%, ownership costs near the affordability ceiling, suggesting strong demand for scarce housing.

Tulsa County for urban seekers with means

If you're earning near Tulsa's $67,317 median and seek urban amenities, your 18.9% rent burden remains manageable—though higher than rural alternatives like Roger Mills (13.6%). Compare these costs against the job opportunities and cultural benefits Tulsa offers to determine whether the urban premium justifies your housing spend.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Tulsa County

via IncomeByCounty

Tulsa County earns near the national average

At $67,317, Tulsa County's median household income trails the national median of $74,755 by approximately $7,400. The county ranks in the middle-to-upper range of U.S. counties, reflecting a diversified urban and suburban economy.

Oklahoma's second-highest income county

Tulsa County's $67,317 median household income ranks among Oklahoma's highest, exceeding the state average of $58,273 by nearly $9,000. Only Rogers County ($77,688) outearns Tulsa, cementing the county's role as Oklahoma's economic powerhouse.

Dominant income advantage in region

Tulsa County significantly outearns Rogers County's rural neighbors and all panhandle counties, including Roger Mills ($62,721), Stephens ($60,236), and Texas ($59,275). Its metropolitan economy and diverse job base create wage opportunities unavailable in surrounding rural areas.

Housing costs are manageable

At 18.9%, Tulsa County's rent-to-income ratio sits slightly above the 15% ideal, reflecting normal urban housing pressures. With a median home value of $213,500, higher-earning households have access to quality housing, though affordability challenges persist for lower-wage workers.

Maximize your metro-area income advantage

Tulsa County's above-average wages and diverse job market create strong wealth-building opportunities for residents. Automate 15–20% of income into employer retirement plans, index funds, and additional savings—your urban economy and income stability provide the foundation for accelerated long-term wealth growth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Tulsa County

via CrimeByCounty

Tulsa County's Reported Safety Success

Tulsa County reports a remarkable safety score of 99.0, one of the highest in the state and nation. Its reported total crime rate of 621.3 per 100,000 residents is drastically lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This data reflects a highly safe environment according to current reporting standards.

Leading the State in Reported Safety

With a safety score of 99.0, Tulsa County far exceeds the Oklahoma average of 95.8. Its total crime rate of 621.3 is just a fraction of the state average of 2,647.7. Ten agencies contribute to these statistics, providing a broad view of the county’s safety efforts.

Regional Comparison of Tulsa County

Tulsa County’s crime rate of 621.3 is the lowest among this group of eight counties, beating even rural Roger Mills at 1,139.3. It is significantly lower than Rogers County, which reports a rate of 2,263.5. This highlights a high level of reported safety across its 10 reporting agencies.

Breakdown of Reported Local Crime

Violent crime is reported at an extremely low rate of 69.4 per 100,000 residents, well below the national 369.8. Property crime is also low at 551.9, compared to the national property crime rate of 2,015.7. These figures represent the incidents officially documented by participating agencies.

Ensuring Continued Safety in Tulsa

Residents can help maintain these low numbers by using smart home security and keeping valuables out of sight in vehicles. Even in highly safe areas, taking proactive measures prevents opportunistic property crimes. Collaboration between the 10 local agencies and the public keeps the county secure.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Tulsa County

via HealthByCounty

Tulsa County matches U.S. life expectancy

At 74.4 years, Tulsa County's life expectancy nearly matches the U.S. average of 73.5 years, placing it solidly in the middle of the national range. The county's 20.2% poor/fair health rate sits slightly below the national 21% average, suggesting typical health outcomes for a major metropolitan area.

Oklahoma's health leader

At 74.4 years, Tulsa County's life expectancy exceeds Oklahoma's state average of 72.7 years by 1.7 years, making it one of the state's healthiest counties. As Oklahoma's largest county by population and economic center, Tulsa's superior health infrastructure and insurance rates drive stronger outcomes than rural peers.

Urban advantage over rural counties

Tulsa County's 74.4-year life expectancy and 20.2% poor/fair health rate consistently outperform all rural counties in this profile, exceeding Seminole County (69.0 years) and Sequoyah County (70.3 years) by wide margins. Urban density and healthcare infrastructure concentration give Tulsa County measurable health advantages.

Best provider network in Oklahoma

With 105 primary care providers and 493 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, Tulsa County boasts the most robust healthcare infrastructure of any county profiled—nearly three times more primary care physicians than rural counties like Tillman. At 14.2% uninsured, Tulsa matches Rogers County as Oklahoma's best-insured counties, enabling residents to access this abundant provider network.

Leverage Tulsa's healthcare abundance

Tulsa County's exceptional provider network means coverage directly translates to care access. If you're among the 14.2% uninsured, visit Healthcare.gov or contact the Oklahoma Health Care Authority to enroll in Medicaid or an ACA plan—your choice of providers and specialists in Tulsa County is unmatched in Oklahoma.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Tulsa County

via SchoolsByCounty

Oklahoma's Powerhouse Education Network

Tulsa County is a massive educational hub with 178 public schools serving over 112,000 students. This extensive network is managed by 23 districts and includes 108 elementary, 40 middle, and 25 high schools.

Urban Scale with Steady Performance

The county maintains an 83.8% graduation rate, remaining competitive with the state average of 84.3%. Per-pupil expenditure is $5,401, which reflects the challenges of funding a large-scale urban and suburban system.

A Diverse Mix of Districts and Charters

Tulsa Public Schools is the largest district with 33,871 students, followed by Broken Arrow with 20,115. The county also offers 15 charter schools, providing specialized choices for 8.4% of the local school portfolio.

From Urban Centers to Large Suburbs

Education here is characterized by 97 city schools and 62 suburban campuses, with an average enrollment of 634 students. Massive facilities like Broken Arrow HS, with 4,589 students, offer specialized programs and collegiate-level resources.

Finding Your Niche in Tulsa County

Whether you prefer the innovation of an urban charter or the resources of a large suburban district like Union or Jenks, Tulsa County has it all. School quality varies by neighborhood, making it a critical factor for local home buyers and investors.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Tulsa County

via RiskByCounty

Tulsa County faces highest national risk

Tulsa County's composite risk score of 97.90 places it in the relatively high category nationally, far exceeding the Oklahoma state average of 55.47. This major metropolitan county experiences substantial natural disaster exposure across all hazard types.

Oklahoma's highest-risk county

Tulsa County ranks as Oklahoma's most hazard-prone county by composite risk, with a score 76% above the state average. The county faces natural disaster exposure unmatched by any other Oklahoma community.

Far exceeds risk in adjacent counties

Tulsa County's 97.90 score dramatically outpaces neighboring Rogers County (80.06) and all surrounding communities, reflecting the urban density and geography of the greater Tulsa metropolitan area. No adjacent county approaches Tulsa's risk exposure.

Tornadoes and floods are critical threats

Tornado risk (99.08) and flood risk (97.93) are Tulsa County's most severe hazards, with both ranking among the highest exposure levels statewide. Wildfire risk (91.25) and earthquake risk (89.92) add substantial additional threats.

Maximum protection measures essential

Tulsa County residents must carry comprehensive homeowners insurance with flood coverage through the NFIP and robust wind/hail protection for tornado season. Investment in a safe room or storm shelter is strongly recommended given the exceptional tornado and flood risk.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Tulsa County

via WeatherByCounty

A warm and moderately snowy hub

Tulsa County averages 60.9°F annually, making it a warm metropolitan area by national standards. It receives 41.5 inches of rain and a surprising 8.7 inches of snow each year.

Typical Oklahoma heat with extra snow

The county's 60.9°F average is just slightly higher than the state average of 60.4°F. It is wetter than the state average and receives significantly more snow than many southern Oklahoma counties.

Comparing urban heat to surrounding plains

Tulsa experiences 74 extreme heat days, which is more than neighbor Rogers County's 62 days. This reflects the urban heat island effect common in more developed Oklahoma counties.

Four distinct seasons with sharp peaks

July averages 82.9°F while winter months average 40.5°F with 8.7 inches of snow. This variety means the county experiences both 90-degree summer spikes and winter accumulation.

Prepare for both heat and snow

Residents need a versatile wardrobe to handle 74 days of 90°F heat and nearly 9 inches of annual snow. Ensure your home has both a reliable furnace and a powerful air conditioner.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Tulsa County

via SoilByCounty

Tulsa County's Naturally Acidic Urban Soils

The average soil pH in Tulsa County is 5.38, which is considerably more acidic than the national median of 6.5. It also sits below the Oklahoma state average of 6.06. This acidic baseline is a defining characteristic of the local landscape and affects choice of ornamental plants.

Equal Parts Silt and Sand

The soil contains 35.5% silt and 33.7% sand, balanced with 17.3% clay. This creates a variable texture that provides decent drainage while maintaining enough structure for urban development. The mixture is generally easy to work, though the acidity remains the primary chemical challenge.

Strong Organic Matter for the Region

At 1.56%, the organic matter content is among the higher levels in this group, though still below the state average of 1.72%. The available water capacity is 0.142 in/in, nearly reaching the state average of 0.144 in/in. These factors contribute to a soil score of 25.3.

Hydrologic Group D Runoff Risks

Classified in Hydrologic Group D, Tulsa's soil is prone to high runoff during the heavy rains common to Northeast Oklahoma. Urban builders must account for this slow infiltration when designing drainage for homes and commercial sites. Rain gardens are an excellent local solution for managing these water patterns.

Vibrant Growing Opportunities in Zone 7b

Tulsa County's Zone 7b climate and acidic soil are perfect for azaleas, dogwoods, and maples. Home gardeners will find success with acid-loving berries and a wide variety of summer vegetables. Regular soil testing and the addition of lime can help those looking to grow more pH-sensitive plants.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Tulsa County

via LawnByCounty

Tulsa County: Top-Tier Growing Conditions

Tulsa County offers one of the best environments for lawns in the state with a difficulty score of 48.4. This is notably higher than the Oklahoma average of 46.1 and approaches the national median of 50.0. For Zone 7b, these are among the most manageable conditions in the region.

Ideal Rainfall and Long Seasons

The county receives 41.5 inches of rain annually, which falls perfectly within the 30-50 inch ideal range. Local heat is manageable, with 74 days over 90°F, slightly lower than the state average of 76. The 5,226 growing degree days provide plenty of warmth for a thriving, lush lawn.

Correcting Acidity in Variable Soils

Tulsa's soil pH is quite low at 5.38, requiring lime treatments to reach the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. The texture is described as variable, with 17.3% clay and 33.7% sand providing a moderate base for most grasses. Improving the soil's chemistry is the most important step for Tulsa homeowners to unlock the lawn's full potential.

Stable Conditions Amid Dry Spells

Tulsa is currently very resilient, with only 0.5% of the county in severe drought despite 100% being abnormally dry. The county saw 14 weeks of drought over the past year, which is lower than many western neighbors. Maintaining 1 inch of water per week through rainfall or irrigation will keep these lawns in peak shape.

Start Growing in Zone 7b

Warm-season grasses thrive here, with a growing window starting after the last frost on March 31. Your lawn will remain active through the summer heat and well into the fall, with the first frost not arriving until November 4. This long season is ideal for establishing Zoysia or Bermuda grass.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tulsa County's county score?
Tulsa County, Oklahoma has a composite county score of 38.4 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Tulsa County rank among counties in Oklahoma?
Tulsa County ranks #55 among all counties in Oklahoma on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Tulsa County, Oklahoma?
The median annual property tax in Tulsa County is $2,161, with an effective tax rate of 1.01%. This earns Tulsa County a tax score of 37.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Tulsa County?
The median household income in Tulsa County, Oklahoma is $67,317 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Tulsa County earns an income score of 59.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Tulsa County, Oklahoma a good place to live?
Tulsa County scores 38.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #55 in Oklahoma. The best way to evaluate Tulsa County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Tulsa County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.