The Data Analyst's Guide to Building a Career in Moore, Oklahoma

Welcome to Moore. If you're considering a move here, you're looking at a place that's often overshadowed by its bigger neighbor, Oklahoma City, but holds its own with a lower cost of living and a surprisingly resilient job market. As a local, I've watched this city evolve from a quiet suburb into a hub for healthcare, education, and logistics. For Data Analysts, it's not the flashy tech coast, but it's a place where your skills are in steady demand, your paycheck stretches further, and you can afford a home. This guide is built on hard data and local knowledge—no fluff, just the facts you need to decide if Moore is your next career move.

We'll break down the numbers, the neighborhoods, the employers, and the long-term outlook. Let's get to work.

The Salary Picture: Where Moore Stands

First, the bottom line: Data Analysts in Moore earn a median salary of $81,109 per year, which translates to about $38.99 per hour. This is slightly below the national average of $83,360, but the difference is more than made up for by the cost of living. In Moore, you're not just earning a salary; you're buying a lifestyle that's more affordable than most places in the country.

The job market here is small but stable. The Moore metro area has about 126 Data Analyst positions at any given time. That might sound limited compared to major metros, but it means less competition and more opportunity to become a known expert. The 10-year job growth is projected at 36%, a robust figure that outpaces many larger cities, driven by the expansion of healthcare systems and the ongoing digital transformation of local businesses.

To give you a clearer picture, here's how salary breaks down by experience level. Note that these are estimates based on local data points and industry trends for the region.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Local Employers Hiring at This Level
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$55,000 - $65,000	Moore Public Schools, Norman Regional Health, small local tech firms
Mid-Level (3-5 yrs)	$75,000 - $90,000	OG&E, Tinker Federal Credit Union, Mercy Health
Senior (5-8 yrs)	$95,000 - $115,000	INTEGRIS Health, larger corporate branches (e.g., Paycom)
Expert/Manager (8+ yrs)	$115,000+	Leadership roles at major employers, consulting for multiple clients

Compared to other Oklahoma cities, Moore holds a unique position. Oklahoma City's median is closer to the national average at $84,500, but the cost of living is 5-10% higher. Tulsa's median is around $80,000, but its job market is more concentrated in energy and aerospace, which can be volatile. Norman, our immediate neighbor to the south, has a strong university-driven market with a median around $79,000, but it's heavily skewed toward academia and research. For a balanced, stable career in a family-friendly environment, Moore's $81,109 is a sweet spot.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's talk real numbers. Your gross salary is one thing; your disposable income is what matters. With a median salary of $81,109, your take-home pay after federal, state, and FICA taxes will be approximately $61,500 per year (or about $5,125/month). This is a conservative estimate that accounts for OK's progressive state income tax (ranging from 0.5% to 4.75%).

Now, let's factor in housing. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Moore is $773/month. This is one of the biggest financial advantages of living here. Compare that to national metros where similar apartments can easily be $1,500+. Here’s a realistic monthly budget for a Data Analyst earning the median:

• Gross Monthly Pay: $6,759
• Estimated Take-Home (after taxes): $5,125
• Rent (1BR): -$773
• Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet): -$200
• Groceries & Household: -$400
• Transportation (Car Payment, Gas, Insurance): -$550
• Health Insurance (Employer Plan): -$300
• Retirement (401k match): -$400
• Discretionary Spending: $2,502

This leaves you with a substantial cushion—over $2,500 per month—for savings, student loans, entertainment, or travel. The Cost of Living Index for Moore is 91.0 (U.S. average = 100), meaning it's 9% cheaper than the national average. This financial breathing room is a key reason many professionals choose to build their lives here.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With the median home price in Moore hovering around $215,000, a 20% down payment is $43,000. Given your strong savings potential, this is a realistic goal within 2-3 years of disciplined saving. A 30-year mortgage at 6.5% interest on a $172,000 loan would have a monthly payment (including taxes and insurance) of roughly $1,200—still very manageable on a Data Analyst's salary. This is the home-ownership dream that is out of reach for many in more expensive markets.

Where the Jobs Are: Moore's Major Employers

Moore's economy is anchored in healthcare, education, public service, and the service sector. Data Analysts are needed to manage patient outcomes, optimize school district budgets, improve public safety, and drive retail/logistics efficiency. Here are the key players:

1. Norman Regional Health System: While based in Norman, this is the dominant healthcare provider for the entire region, including Moore. They have a Moore Medical Center and numerous clinics. They hire analysts for patient data, operational efficiency, and financial forecasting. Hiring Trend: Steady growth, especially in IT and data roles supporting their new EMR systems.

2. Moore Public Schools (MPS): One of the largest school districts in Oklahoma, serving over 24,000 students. The district employs analysts for student performance data, budget allocation, and transportation logistics. Hiring Trend: Consistent, with a push for data-driven decision-making in student achievement.

3. INTEGRIS Health: Another major healthcare system with a strong presence in the Moore area. They focus heavily on population health and value-based care, requiring sophisticated data analysis to track patient outcomes across communities. Hiring Trend: High demand for analysts with experience in healthcare data (HIPAA compliance, clinical metrics).

4. Oklahoma Gas & Electric (OG&E): Headquartered in Oklahoma City but with a massive footprint in Moore. OG&E is investing heavily in smart grid technology and renewable energy, creating a need for analysts to manage energy consumption data, outage predictions, and grid efficiency. Hiring Trend: Strong, driven by infrastructure modernization.

5. Tinker Federal Credit Union: A major financial institution with a significant branch and operational presence in the area. They need analysts for member data, loan portfolio risk, fraud detection, and marketing campaign effectiveness. Hiring Trend: Stable, with a growing focus on digital banking analytics.

6. City of Moore & Cleveland County: Local government agencies hire analysts for public safety (police/fire), tax revenue, and community development data. These roles offer excellent job security and benefits. Hiring Trend: Slow but steady growth, tied to population increases and city planning needs.

7. Logistics & Distribution Centers: Moore's location on I-35 makes it a logistics hub. Companies like Amazon (with a fulfillment center nearby in Norman) and large regional distributors employ analysts for supply chain optimization, inventory management, and route planning. Hiring Trend: Very strong, as e-commerce continues to grow.

Insider Tip: Many of these employers don't post roles on national job boards. Check the "Careers" pages directly on their websites. Also, network with professionals at the Oklahoma City Data & Analytics Meetup group, which attracts talent from the entire metro area, including Moore.

Getting Licensed in OK

For Data Analysts, formal state licensing is not a standard requirement like it is for accountants or engineers. However, certain specializations and employers may require specific certifications or background checks.

• State-Specific Requirements: There are no mandatory state licenses to practice as a Data Analyst in Oklahoma. However, if you work in a regulated industry like healthcare (HIPAA) or finance (SEC/NACHA rules), you must adhere to federal compliance standards. Your employer will provide the necessary training.
• Key Certifications (Recommended):
  • Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate: A great entry-level credential. Cost: ~$39/month on Coursera (completable in 3-6 months).
  • Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate: Focuses on Power BI. Exam cost: $165.
  • Certified Analytics Professional (CAP): For mid-to-senior level. Exam cost: $695 for members, $895 for non-members.
• Background Checks: Most employers (especially schools, hospitals, and government) will require a standard background check. The cost is typically covered by the employer, but if you need one for a freelance application, it can run $50 - $150.
• Timeline to Get Started: You can begin applying for jobs immediately. If you need to upskill, a focused 3-6 month period of study and certification can make you a highly competitive candidate. The state's Office of Workforce Development offers free resources and sometimes subsidized training programs for in-demand skills.

Best Neighborhoods for Data Analysts

Where you live in Moore impacts your commute and lifestyle. The city is laid out on a grid, with I-35 as the eastern border. Traffic is generally light, but choosing the right neighborhood can save you time and enhance your quality of life.

1. Southeast Moore (Near Moore Medical Center):

   • Vibe: Quiet, established, family-oriented. Close to the hospital and great schools.
   • Commute: Easy 10-15 minute drive to most major employers in Moore and south OKC.
   • Rent Estimate: $750 - $850/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Analysts working at Norman Regional or INTEGRIS who want a short commute.

2. Central Moore (Downtown/Railroad District):

   • Vibe: Historic charm, walkable to local shops and eateries. It's the heart of the community.
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to anywhere in Moore. Easy access to I-35 for trips to OKC.
   • Rent Estimate: $700 - $800/month for a 1BR (older apartments).
   • Best For: Those who want a small-town feel with proximity to everything.

3. West Moore (Near I-44/SH-9):

   • Vibe: More suburban, newer developments, popular with young families.
   • Commute: 10-20 minutes to central Moore employers, 20-30 minutes to downtown OKC.
   • Rent Estimate: $800 - $950/month for a 1BR (newer complexes).
   • Best For: Analysts who work in west OKC or want newer amenities.

4. Northwest Moore (near the intersection of I-35 & SH-9):

   • Vibe: Rapidly developing area with new shopping centers and apartments. High turnover.
   • Commute: 5-15 minutes to most Moore employers, 15-25 minutes to OKC.
   • Rent Estimate: $775 - $900/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Someone who values convenience to retail and highway access.

5. Southwest Moore (Jacks Creek area):

   • Vibe: Rural-suburban mix, larger lots, more space. Quieter.
   • Commute: 15-25 minutes to central Moore employers.
   • Rent Estimate: $700 - $825/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Those who work from home or don't mind a slightly longer commute for more peace and space.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Your career in Moore can grow in depth or breadth. The 10-year job growth projection of 36% suggests a healthy market for those who specialize.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • Healthcare Analytics: Analysts with experience in clinical data, population health, or EMR systems (like Epic or Cerner) can command a 10-15% premium over the median. This is the highest-demand niche in the region.
  • Geospatial/GIS Analysis: With agriculture and logistics being key industries, analysts skilled in geographic data (ArcGIS, QGIS) are valuable. A 5-10% premium is common.
  • Financial & Risk Modeling: For those at credit unions or in banking, specialization in risk assessment and fraud analytics can lead to senior roles quickly.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Technical Path: Junior Analyst -> Data Analyst -> Senior Data Analyst -> Data Scientist or Analytics Manager. This requires deepening technical skills in Python, R, SQL, and machine learning.
  2. Domain Expert Path: Analyst -> Business Analyst -> Subject Matter Expert (e.g., Healthcare Informatics Specialist) -> Department Director. This path leverages deep knowledge of a specific industry (healthcare, education, utilities).
  3. Consulting/Freelance Path: Build a portfolio of local clients (small businesses, non-profits) while employed. With a low cost of living, you can afford to take the risk of going solo after gaining 5-7 years of experience.

• 10-Year Outlook: The demand will be driven by the continued digitization of Moore's core industries. Healthcare will remain the top employer. The growth of the OKC metro southward will also bring in more corporate satellite offices needing data support. The key will be staying adaptable and continuously upskilling, particularly in AI and machine learning tools, which are starting to trickle down to smaller markets.

The Verdict: Is Moore Right for You?

This table summarizes the core trade-offs.

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: A $81,109 salary goes much further here.	Limited Job Market: Only 126 positions, so fewer opportunities than major metros.
Home Ownership is Achievable: Median home price of $215,000 is within reach.	Limited "Tech" Scene: Few pure tech startups; most roles are in established industries.
Stable, Growing Employers: Healthcare, education, and utilities provide job security.	Cultural Offerings are Modest: Fewer museums, concerts, and niche events than a big city.
Short Commutes: Average commute is under 20 minutes.	Salary Ceiling: Top-end salaries are lower than in coastal tech hubs.
Family-Friendly: Great schools, safe neighborhoods, community feel.	Dependence on a Car: Public transit is minimal; you'll need a vehicle.

Final Recommendation:

Moore is an excellent choice for mid-career Data Analysts or those prioritizing quality of life and financial stability over a high-octane tech career. It's ideal if you're looking to buy a home, raise a family, and work on meaningful problems in healthcare or education without the stress of a cutthroat job market. It may not be the best fit for a fresh graduate seeking a vibrant startup culture or an expert chasing a salary over $130,000. For the right person, Moore offers a rare combination: a solid career with a comfortable, affordable life. It's a place where you can build a future, not just a resume.

FAQs

Q: Is it hard to find a job without local connections?
A: It can be, but it's not impossible. The key is to target your applications. Use LinkedIn to find hiring managers at Norman Regional, MPS, and OG&E. Mention your understanding of the local economy in your cover letter. For our small market, a well-researched application stands out.

Q: How does the job growth forecast of 36% actually feel in the market?
A: It feels like steady, reliable expansion, not a frenzy. You'll see new postings frequently, but they're often backfilling growth or new departmental needs, not explosive startup hiring. It means less volatility and more long-term stability.

Q: What's the biggest surprise for Data Analysts moving from a big city?
A: The pace. Meetings are more direct. You'll likely have more cross-departmental exposure because teams are smaller. The biggest adjustment is the lack of specialized roles—you might be the sole data person, wearing many hats (data cleaning, reporting, basic visualization). It's a great way to build a broad skill set quickly.

Q: Are there opportunities for remote work?
A: Yes, especially post-2020. Many analysts in Moore work for OKC-based employers remotely a few days a week. However, local employers like the ones listed above often prefer hybrid or in-office roles to foster collaboration. It's a mix, so be clear about your