Oklahoma Tech Graduates Migrate Due to Wage Gaps
A new study reveals that over half of Oklahoma STEM graduates leave the state as industry growth lags behind the national average.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Employment
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The Oklahoma Technology Alliance reports that the state retains only 47.2% of its STEM degree graduates, with many moving to Texas for higher pay. This migration trend follows a five-year period where Oklahoma tech job growth significantly underperformed compared to national rates.
Why it matters
The brain drain of technology talent is fueled by an average salary of $86,000 in Oklahoma compared to $105,000 in neighboring Texas. This exodus threatens the future of the state tech sector, which currently faces a projected 2.1% decline in jobs over the next five years.
Oklahoma tech industry jobs grew 2.3% over the last five years, ranking the state 47th nationally in growth. The industry currently employs 88,440 people and accounts for 10% of total state earnings.
The players
Oklahoma Technology Alliance
This organization supports the growth of the state technology sector and provides data on regional workforce trends.
State Chamber of Oklahoma
This entity acts as an advocacy group that lobbies for pro-growth economic policies on behalf of state businesses.
The details
Oklahoma Technology Alliance researchers found that 17% of local STEM graduates relocate specifically to Texas. In response, the State Chamber of Oklahoma has initiated a social media campaign to encourage businesses to raise compensation levels to improve retention.
Timeline
From 2020 to 2025, Oklahoma IT job growth occurred at varying rates.
In 2025, tech industry employment and earnings data were recorded.
In October 2026, the Oklahoma Technology Alliance released the OK Competes study.
From 2026 to 2031, Oklahoma tech jobs are projected to decline by 2.1%.
Macro View
The 2026 OK Competes study highlights the ongoing struggle to retain local talent against more robust regional economies. This trajectory mirrors historical labor patterns where professionals gravitate toward states offering higher industry-specific wage benchmarks.
The projected decline in tech jobs may limit local opportunities for future graduates and entry-level employees in the state. Households may feel the impact as the tech industry, currently accounting for 10% of state earnings, faces potential contraction.
The takeaway
The competitive wage gap between Oklahoma and Texas remains the primary driver of regional talent loss. Local businesses may need to adjust compensation strategies to keep STEM graduates from seeking better-paying roles in neighboring states.
Further reading
For more on local market trends, visit the Employment section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Oklahoman.
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Should your state prioritize higher wages and innovation incentives to keep graduates from moving away?
