Life Expectancy
Life expectancy in Oklahoma is 75.4 years, among the lowest in the nation, reflecting high rates of chronic disease.
Age-adjusted death rate, all causes
1999–2017CDC National Center for Health Statistics, leading causes of death (1999–2017), all causes, age-adjusted.
Total deaths, all causes
1999–2017CDC National Center for Health Statistics, leading causes of death (1999–2017).
| Indicator | Oklahoma | U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Life expectancy (years) | 75.4 | 77.5 |
Healthcare Access
Oklahoma faces a shortage of healthcare providers, especially in rural areas, with primary care physician access below the national average.
Residents without health insurance
2009–2024Census American Community Survey 1-year estimates, civilian noninstitutionalized population, B27010 (2020 not released).
Hospitals
Oklahoma has about 120 hospitals, many serving as critical access facilities in rural counties.
Hospital jobs
1990–2025BLS Current Employment Statistics, NAICS 622, annual average (FRED SMU40000006562200001).
Health care jobs (ambulatory, hospitals and nursing)
1990–2025BLS Current Employment Statistics, NAICS 621–623, annual average (FRED SMU40000006562000001).
Insurance Coverage
Oklahoma's uninsured rate is about 12.7%, one of the highest in the nation, though it dropped after Medicaid expansion took effect in 2021.
Adults with any health care coverage
2011–2020CDC BRFSS, adults 18+ (question discontinued after 2020).
| Indicator | Oklahoma | U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Uninsured rate (%) | 12.7 | 8 |
- •Oklahoma voters approved Medicaid expansion by ballot initiative in 2020, taking effect in July 2021.
Obesity
Adult obesity in Oklahoma is about 36.8%, among the highest rates in the nation.
Adults with obesity
2011–2025CDC BRFSS via Chronic Disease Indicators, adults 18+.
| Indicator | Oklahoma | U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Adult obesity (%) | 36.8 | 33.5 |
Public Health Indicators
Oklahoma ranks among the least healthy states overall, with high smoking rates and elevated cardiovascular disease mortality.
Adults who currently smoke
2011–2025CDC Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, adults 18+.