📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Moore and New York
Head-to-Head Analysis
Moore vs New York
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Moore | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $76,941 | $76,577 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.5% | 5.3% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $221,750 | $875,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $152 | $604 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $773 | $2,451 |
| Housing Cost Index | 78.1 | 149.3 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 92.2 | 109.5 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $2.89 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 458.6 | 364.2 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 27.7% | 42.5% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 34 | 31 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
New York vs. Moore: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
Let’s be real: this isn’t a fair fight. You’re not choosing between two similar cities; you’re choosing between two different planets that happen to share a planet. New York City is the 800-pound gorilla of American urban life—a global financial, cultural, and media epicenter. Moore, Oklahoma is a classic, fast-growing suburban bedroom community in the Oklahoma City metro area, known for its parks, schools, and a much, much quieter pace.
But "better" depends entirely on what you're looking for. Are you chasing the top of the ladder, or are you looking to build a comfortable, affordable life off the beaten path? Let's break it down with no fluff.
The Vibe Check: Planet Earth vs. Planet Moore
New York is the definition of a fast-paced, concrete jungle. The energy is relentless, the culture is dense, and the opportunities are endless. It’s a 24/7 city where you can get any cuisine at 3 AM, see a world-class Broadway show, and mingle with the world's most ambitious people—all in a single day. The vibe is "hustle and grind," and it’s not for the faint of heart. It’s for the go-getter, the artist, the finance whiz, and the person who thrives on chaos and possibility.
Moore is the embodiment of suburban tranquility. It’s laid-back, family-friendly, and community-focused. Think tree-lined streets, big backyards, and Friday night football games. The pace is measured, the air is cleaner, and the primary stressor is often the line at the local Whataburger. It’s a place where you know your neighbors, and the biggest decision of the day might be what to grill for dinner. It’s for the young family, the remote worker seeking space, and the person prioritizing community and a lower-stress lifestyle.
Callout Box: The Vibe Verdict
- New York: For the cultural glutton, the career climber, and the urban adventurer. If you crave anonymity in a crowd and endless stimulation, this is your playground.
- Moore: For the family builder, the peace-seeker, and the budget-conscious professional who wants a great quality of life without the constant buzz. If you value a backyard and a short commute, this is your haven.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Really Go?
This is where the comparison gets staggering. Despite having a nearly identical median income—New York at $76,577 and Moore at $76,941—the purchasing power in these two cities is worlds apart.
Let's look at the cold, hard numbers.
Cost of Living Comparison Table
| Expense Category | New York, NY | Moore, OK | The Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $875,000 | $221,750 | +294% (NY is nearly 4x more) |
| 1-Bedroom Rent | $2,451 | $773 | +217% (NY rent is over 3x higher) |
| Housing Index | 149.3 | 78.1 | +91% (NY housing is almost double the cost) |
| Median Income | $76,577 | $76,941 | Essentially a Tie |
Salary Wars: The Purchasing Power Paradox
Imagine you earn $100,000 a year in both cities. In Moore, that salary makes you solidly upper-middle class. You could comfortably afford a nice $2,500/month mortgage on a great house and still have plenty left for savings, travel, and fun. Your money stretches.
In New York, that same $100,000 feels like a struggle. After federal, state (NY has a high progressive income tax), and city taxes, your take-home is significantly less. That $2,451 rent for a one-bedroom apartment isn't a luxury; it's a baseline. If you want to buy, you’re looking at a $875,000 home, requiring a massive down payment and a mortgage payment that would be a dealbreaker for most. Your purchasing power is severely diminished.
Taxes: The Hidden Cost
- New York: You’ll pay a steep price for the privilege of living there. New York State income tax can reach 8.82% for high earners, and New York City adds its own tax (up to 3.876%). That’s a significant chunk of change before you even pay your rent.
- Moore (Texas): Moore is in Oklahoma, which does have a state income tax (ranging from 0.5% to 4.75%). However, if we look at the broader trend, Texas (the state next door and a major cultural influence) has 0% state income tax, which is a huge financial advantage. Oklahoma's tax burden is generally lower than New York's, but it's not tax-free.
Callout Box: The Dollar Power Verdict
- Winner: Moore, Oklahoma. By a landslide. The data is undeniable. Your salary goes dramatically further in Moore. You can own a home on a middle-class income, and the overall cost of living is a fraction of New York's. The "sticker shock" of New York is real and potentially crippling.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
New York:
- Buyer's Market? No. It's a perpetual seller's market with intense competition. Inventory is low, and prices are astronomical. You're not just buying a home; you're buying into a coveted lifestyle, and that comes with a premium. Co-ops, condos, and brownstones require deep pockets and patience.
- Renting Reality: For most, renting is the only option. The rental market is cutthroat, with fees, broker costs, and fierce competition for decent apartments. It's a constant hustle.
Moore:
- Buyer's Market? It's a more balanced market, trending towards a buyer's market in many suburbs. Inventory is better, and prices, while rising, are still accessible. You can find a 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a yard for under $300,000—a concept that is a fantasy in New York.
- Renting Reality: Renting is affordable and straightforward. You get more space for your money, and the application process is generally less stressful.
Callout Box: The Housing Verdict
- Winner: Moore, Oklahoma. For the average person looking to build equity, Moore offers a path to homeownership. In New York, homeownership is often a distant dream for those not in the top income brackets.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
Traffic & Commute:
- New York: Commuting is a way of life. The subway is efficient but crowded, dirty, and prone to delays. Driving is a nightmare. A 5-mile commute can take 45 minutes. Time is your most precious currency here.
- Moore: Commutes are short and sweet. The average commute to downtown Oklahoma City is 20-30 minutes by car. Traffic exists during rush hour but is manageable compared to a major metro. You’ll spend less time in the car and more time at home.
Weather:
- New York: Experiences all four seasons with gusto. Winters are cold and snowy (average 50°F is misleading; it’s 30°F in January). Summers are hot and humid. You need a full wardrobe and a tolerance for seasonal shifts.
- Moore: Has a more moderate climate but with its own challenges. Summers are hot and humid (regularly hitting 90°F+), and springs bring the risk of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. Winters are mild but can have ice storms. The average of 52°F is pleasant, but the extremes are significant.
Crime & Safety:
- New York: The data shows a violent crime rate of 364.2/100k. While NYC has become much safer over the decades, certain neighborhoods have higher rates. Safety can vary drastically by block. The feeling of safety is often situational.
- Moore: The data shows a violent crime rate of 458.6/100k, which is statistically higher than New York's. This can be surprising, but it’s important to note that crime rates in smaller cities can be skewed by a few intense incidents. In reality, Moore is considered a very safe, family-oriented community. The perception of safety is often higher here than in a dense, anonymous city.
Callout Box: The Dealbreakers Verdict
- Commute: Moore wins hands-down.
- Weather: It’s a tie—it depends on your preference (NY snow vs. OK humidity/tornadoes).
- Safety: New York wins on the data, but Moore likely wins on the perception and daily feeling of safety for a family.
Final Pros & Cons List
New York, NY
Pros:
- Unmatched Career Opportunities: Concentration of top-tier companies in finance, media, tech, and the arts.
- Cultural Epicenter: World-class museums, Broadway, restaurants, and nightlife.
- Public Transit: Extensive subway and bus system (no car needed).
- Global Melting Pot: Incredible diversity and international community.
- Walkability: Many neighborhoods are highly walkable.
Cons:
- Astronomical Cost of Living: Rent and home prices are out of reach for most.
- High Taxes: State and city income taxes take a big bite.
- Crowding & Stress: Constant noise, crowds, and fast pace can be exhausting.
- Long Commutes: Time spent getting from A to B is significant.
- Limited Space: Apartments are small, and outdoor space is a luxury.
Moore, OK
Pros:
- Extreme Affordability: Housing and living costs are a fraction of NYC's.
- Family-Friendly: Excellent schools, parks, and community events.
- Short Commutes: Easy access to OKC jobs without the metro grind.
- Sense of Community: Tight-knit neighborhoods where people know each other.
- Backyard Living: Space for homes, yards, and cars is the norm.
Cons:
- Limited Career Scene: Fewer high-profile employers; may require commuting to OKC.
- Cultural & Dining Options: Good, but nothing compared to NYC's depth and variety.
- Car Dependency: You need a car for almost everything.
- Weather Extremes: Hot, humid summers and tornado risk.
- Less Diversity: Less metropolitan and international feel.
The Verdict: Who Wins for YOU?
Winner for Families: Moore, Oklahoma.
The combination of safe neighborhoods, high-quality schools, affordable large homes with yards, and a strong sense of community is a winning formula for raising a family. The financial pressure is dramatically lower, allowing for a better quality of life and more money for savings and college funds.
Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: New York, NY.
If you are in your 20s or early 30s and your career is your priority, New York is unparalleled. The networking opportunities, the social scene, and the sheer density of people and ideas are unmatched. It’s a pressure cooker, but it can forge careers and create lifelong friendships. Caveat: This is only true if you can land a job that justifies the cost of living.
Winner for Retirees: Moore, Oklahoma.
Retirement is about making your savings last. In Moore, a fixed income goes incredibly far. You can own a comfortable home, live in a safe community, and enjoy a slower pace without the financial strain of a place like New York. The lower taxes and cost of living are a retiree's best friend.
Final Word: This isn't about which city is objectively "better." It’s about which city aligns with your life stage, career goals, and personal values. Do you want to be where the action is, even if it costs you dearly? Or do you want to build a comfortable, stable life with room to breathe? The data points clearly to one conclusion, but the right choice is the one that feels like home to you.