Texas vs. Oklahoma
Oklahoma and Texas are two states located in the south-central part of the United States. They are amongst the most populous and economically interactive states throughout the country.Both populations combines equates to about 30 million people, explaining the amazing diversity in cultures, industries, and resources. Being a western state comes with history and events that have shaped the area into what it is today. Along with their many similarities, what makes Oklahoma different from Texas, and vice-versa?
Economics
Both states have experienced major growth in their economies over the past few years. The Bureau of Economic Analysis confirms that Oklahoma’s GDP grew 2.6% in 2019, and Texas’s GDP grew 3.1%. Though both states share the economic growth factor, ther economies that fueled this increase differ. Oklahoma’s main industry is the oil and gas industry, while Texas’s are trade, finance, and manufacturing.
The rapid expansion of said industries led to many new job opportunities in the past 10 years. Employment in the oil and gas industry has grown over 130% over the past decade in Oklahoma, and Texas’s energy sector grew over 300%.
Geography
Because both regions are located in the central part of America, they share a similar climate. Oklahoma and Texas both have sunny and warm weather for most of the year, but still experience a noticeable shift in temperature during the cooler seasons.
Both states are about 75% farmland, though the terrain differs between the two. Oklahoma is mostly flat, though hills can be seen in the eastern region. There are also many rivers throughout the state. Texas has wider range of topography, with many hills in the central region and mountains out west. Like Oklahoma, there are also many rivers throughout the territory.
Demographics
With millions of people inhabiting both states, the statistics show that 72% of this population is white, 14% is Hispanic or Latino, and 10% is African American. One unique thing to both of these states, mainly Oklahoma, is the large population of Native Americans. 10% of Oklahoma’s population and 6% of Texas’s population is Native American.
Regarding age, about 19% of both states house residents aged 65 or over. Children ages 0-17 make up roughly 33% of Oklahoma’s population, and about 28% of Texas’s. Oklahoma also has a higher percentage of people ages 18-34, making up about 23% of the population while only 19% of the population of Texas.
Politics
Though both Oklahoma and Texas are considered red states, meaning the majority of the state considers themselves to be Republican, views on specific issues differ in each state.
Which Do You Prefer?
Both Oklahoma and Texas offer many opportunities, and while the states are largely similar, they have their own differences that will appeal to certain things that you may be searching for in a property. They have strong economic growth, great climate for framing or simply building a home, and have a wide range of job opportunities. Either state will surely entice you, but which state will you choose?
