The Financial Analyst's Guide to Moore, Oklahoma

As a career analyst who has spent years tracking the Oklahoma job market, I can tell you Moore is a city that often flies under the radar. It’s not the bustling financial hub of Oklahoma City, nor is it the energy epicenter of Tulsa. But for a Financial Analyst looking for a lower cost of living, a stable job market, and a genuine community feel, Moore presents a compelling case. This guide is built on hard data, local knowledge, and a no-nonsense look at what your life and career would really look like here.

The Salary Picture: Where Moore Stands

Let's start with the numbers that matter most. According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local market surveys, the financial landscape for analysts in the Moore metro area is competitive, especially when you factor in the cost of living. The median salary for a Financial Analyst in Moore is $96,336/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $46.32/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $99,010/year, but the context is everything.

In Moore, that salary goes much further. The city’s cost of living index sits at 91.0, meaning it’s 9% more affordable than the U.S. average. When you pair the local median salary with this lower cost of living, your purchasing power is fundamentally stronger here than in many other metropolitan areas.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Salaries in Moore follow a predictable progression based on experience. While the median is $96,336, your starting point and ceiling will vary.

Experience Level	Typical Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary Range (Moore Metro)
Entry-Level Analyst	0-2 years	$65,000 - $78,000
Mid-Level Analyst	3-7 years	$80,000 - $105,000
Senior Analyst	8-15 years	$105,000 - $130,000
Expert/Manager	15+ years	$130,000 - $160,000+

Note: These ranges are estimates based on local job postings, BLS data, and industry surveys for the Oklahoma City Metro Area, which includes Moore.

Comparison to Other Oklahoma Cities

Moore offers a unique value proposition within the state. It’s more affordable than the state’s primary financial centers, but it’s not isolated from opportunities.

City	Median Salary (Financial Analyst)	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Key Differentiator
Moore	$96,336	91.0	Best balance of salary and affordability; family-friendly.
Oklahoma City	~$98,500	92.5	More corporate headquarters and larger firms; slightly higher COL.
Tulsa	~$97,000	90.8	Strong in energy finance; similar COL to Moore.
Norman	~$93,000	90.0	Heavily influenced by the university; more academic/research roles.

The takeaway: Moore’s salary is competitive within the state, and when you add the cost-of-living advantage, it’s a financially savvy choice.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $96,336 salary sounds great on paper, but what does it mean for your monthly life in Moore? Let’s break it down.

Assumptions for a Single Filer (2024 Tax Estimates):

• Federal Income Tax: ~$15,500 (after standard deduction)
• FICA (7.65%): ~$7,370
• Oklahoma State Income Tax: ~$3,600 (progressive, ~4.75% effective rate)
• Total Annual Taxes: ~$26,470
• Annual Take-Home Pay: $69,866 (~$5,822/month)

Monthly Budget Breakdown

With a monthly take-home of $5,822, here’s a realistic budget for a Financial Analyst in Moore:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes & Local Context
Housing (1BR Rent)	$773	Average 1BR rent in Moore. You can find newer apartments in the Southgate area for ~$850 or older units near I-35 for ~$650.
Utilities (Elec/Gas/Water)	$180	Summer AC costs in Oklahoma can spike; budget $120-$150 for 8 months, $200-$250 for 4 summer months.
Groceries	$400	Competitive prices at local chains like Homeland, Reasor's, and Walmart.
Transportation (Car)	$450	Assumes a car payment ($300), insurance ($100), and gas ($50). Public transit is limited; a car is essential.
Health Insurance	$250	Varies by employer; this is a typical employee contribution.
Retirement (401k 6%)	$480	Employer match is common in this field; crucial for long-term growth.
Miscellaneous	$800	Dining out, entertainment, personal care, savings. Moore has a low-cost entertainment scene.
Total Monthly	$3,333
Remaining for Savings/Debt	~$2,489

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

Absolutely. This is where Moore truly shines. The median home price in Moore is approximately $220,000 (as of early 2024). With a $20,000 down payment (9%) and a 30-year mortgage at 7%, your monthly payment (including taxes and insurance) would be around $1,650-$1,750.

This is significantly less than the national average and even less than renting a comparable single-family home in a larger city. For a financial analyst earning the local median, homeownership in a nice neighborhood is not just a dream—it’s a realistic 2-3 year goal after saving for a down payment.

Where the Jobs Are: Moore's Major Employers

Moore’s job market for financial analysts is anchored by a mix of manufacturing, healthcare, and insurance, with spillover from the larger Oklahoma City metro. There are 126 jobs for financial analysts in the metro area (BLS data), with steady demand. Here are the key players:

1. Moore Public Schools: The district is one of the largest employers in the area. They have a dedicated finance department that hires analysts for budgeting, grant management, and long-term financial planning. It’s a stable, public-sector role with excellent benefits.
2. Integris Health Moore: As part of the major Integris network, this hospital requires financial analysts for revenue cycle management, cost accounting, and budgeting. Healthcare finance is a growing specialty in Oklahoma.
3. AT&T (Regional Operations): While the main offices are in OKC, AT&T has a significant operational footprint in Moore. They employ financial analysts for regional budgeting, forecasting, and operational analysis.
4. Devon Energy (OKC Metro): While headquartered in OKC, many Devon employees live in Moore for the commute and schools. Devon is a major employer of financial analysts in energy finance, a lucrative field with bonuses that can significantly exceed base salary.
5. Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores: A massive Oklahoma-based company, Love’s has its corporate headquarters in OKC but employs many Moore residents. They need analysts for capital budgeting, real estate analysis, and corporate finance.
6. Local Banking & Credit Unions: Institutions like Bank of Oklahoma (BOK) and Tinker Federal Credit Union have branches and operations in Moore, hiring analysts for commercial lending and internal finance.

Hiring Trends: Demand is steady. The 10-year job growth is 9%, slightly below the national average but stable. The most openings are in healthcare and manufacturing finance. There’s a notable trend of companies in OKC looking for talent who live in Moore, making it a viable commuter option for higher-paying roles.

Getting Licensed in OK

For most financial analyst roles, a specific state license is not required unless you are dealing with securities (e.g., as a registered investment advisor). However, certifications are highly valued.

• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA): The gold standard. No state license required. The CFA Institute handles all exams. Cost: ~$3,000 - $4,000 for all three levels (including study materials). Timeline: 3-4 years of study while working.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA): If you lean toward accounting/finance. You must apply to the Oklahoma Accountancy Board. Requirements: 150 credit hours, passing the CPA exam. Cost: ~$1,500 for exam fees + review course. Timeline: 6-18 months of study post-graduation.
• Oklahoma Insurance License: Needed if you move into financial planning or insurance analysis. Get it through the Oklahoma Insurance Department. Cost: ~$100 for exam fees. Timeline: 2-4 weeks of study.

Insider Tip: Many local employers, especially in energy and healthcare, will pay for these certifications if you commit to staying for 2-3 years. Always ask about professional development budgets during interviews.

Best Neighborhoods for Financial Analysts

Moore is a sprawling suburb, and your choice of neighborhood affects your commute, lifestyle, and budget.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Description	Avg. 1BR Rent	Commute to Major Employers
Southgate	The most desirable area. Modern homes, top-rated Moore schools, and easy access to I-35. Quiet, family-oriented.	$850 - $1,000	10-15 min to Moore schools/hospitals; 20-25 min to OKC downtown.
Central Moore (Downtown Adjacent)	Older, established homes with character. Walkable to local shops and parks. More affordable.	$650 - $800	5-10 min to Moore Medical Center; 20 min to OKC.
The East Side (NE 36th St area)	Growing area with new subdivisions. Good value for homeowners. Less walkable, very car-dependent.	$700 - $850	15 min to Moore Medical; 25 min to OKC via I-240.
West Moore (near I-35/I-44)	Convenient for commuters heading to OKC. Mix of older apartments and new townhomes.	$750 - $900	5 min to I-35; 15-20 min to OKC. Traffic can be heavy.
Norman Commuter (Bonus)	Many analysts choose to live in Norman (5-10 min south) for its university vibe and slightly lower rents.	$700 - $950	15-20 min to Moore employers; 30 min to OKC.

Insider Tip: Southgate is worth the premium if you have or plan to have kids—the school district is a major draw. For pure financial efficiency, Central Moore offers the best balance.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Your growth as a financial analyst in Moore is tied to specialization and the wider OKC metro.

• Specialty Premiums:
  • Energy Finance (Devon, Chesapeake): Can command a 10-20% salary premium. Bonuses are significant.
  • Healthcare Finance (Integris, Mercy): Steady demand with a 5-10% premium.
  • Corporate FP&A in Manufacturing: Stable, with standard progression.
• Advancement Paths: The typical path is Analyst → Senior Analyst → Finance Manager → Director of Finance. To reach the Director level, you often need to connect with OKC-based corporate offices. Many professionals make the 20-minute commute to OKC for senior roles while raising their families in Moore.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 9% job growth is solid. The demand will be driven by the healthcare sector's expansion and the continued strength of local energy companies. Networking in the Oklahoma City Financial Analysts group is critical for long-term advancement.

The Verdict: Is Moore Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Exceptional Cost of Living. Your salary stretches much further.	Limited Local Headquarters. You may need to commute to OKC for the highest-paying roles.
Strong Homeownership Path. Affordable housing market.	Smaller Network. Fewer finance professionals than in OKC or Tulsa.
Family-Friendly. Top-rated public schools and safe communities.	Car-Dependent. Public transit is minimal; you will drive everywhere.
Stable Job Market. Anchored by healthcare, education, and manufacturing.	Limited Nightlife/Culture. Most entertainment is family-oriented; OKC fills the gap.
Easy Commute to OKC. Access to a larger job market without the big-city cost.	Weather. Tornado season (April-June) is a real consideration.

Final Recommendation:
Moore is an excellent choice for mid-career financial analysts (3-10 years of experience) who are looking to buy a home, start a family, and build long-term wealth without sacrificing career trajectory. It’s less ideal for early-career analysts seeking a vibrant, competitive finance hub or for those who prioritize a bustling urban lifestyle. For the right person—someone who values community, affordability, and a strategic commute to OKC—Moore is a hidden gem.

FAQs

1. Do I need a car in Moore?
Yes, absolutely. The city is designed for cars. While some areas have sidewalks, you’ll need a vehicle for commuting, groceries, and daily life. Public transportation is limited to a few bus routes.

2. How competitive is the job market for financial analysts?
Moderately competitive. With 126 jobs in the metro, it’s not as saturated as OKC, but roles are well-posted. Tailoring your resume to healthcare or manufacturing finance will give you a distinct advantage.

3. What’s the tornado risk like?
Moore is in “Tornado Alley.” The city has modern building codes and excellent warning systems, but it’s a fact of life. Factor in the cost of a storm shelter (or verify one in a rental) and have a safety plan. The community is incredibly resilient in recovery.

4. Can I work remotely for a company outside Oklahoma?
Yes, this is a growing trend. Your low cost of living makes you highly competitive for remote roles with companies in higher-cost areas. Ensure you have a reliable, high-speed internet connection (fiber is available in parts of Moore).

5. How do I network in the local finance community?
Join the Oklahoma City Financial Analysts group on LinkedIn and attend their meetups (often in OKC or Norman). Connect with local alumni from your university. Also, consider joining the Oklahoma Society of CPAs or local CFA Society events, which are held in the broader metro area.

Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Oklahoma City MSA data; U.S. News & World Report Cost of Living Data; Zillow Rental Market Data; Oklahoma State Department of Education; Local employer job postings and industry reports.