What state is best to raise a family: Oklahoma or Arizona?

@kara 

Determining the best state to raise a family depends on various factors such as quality of education, healthcare, safety, cost of living, and opportunities for growth. Here's a comparison of Oklahoma and Arizona based on some of these factors:

1. Education: Both Oklahoma and Arizona have their own strengths and weaknesses in terms of education. Oklahoma has lower high school graduation rates and lower test scores compared to the national average. Arizona also performs below the national average in terms of education, but it has been investing in improving its education system.
2. Healthcare: Arizona generally has better healthcare access and quality compared to Oklahoma. Arizona has more hospitals and physicians per capita, and it ranks higher in overall healthcare outcomes.
3. Safety: Arizona has lower crime rates compared to Oklahoma. According to FBI crime data, Oklahoma has a higher crime rate than the national average, while Arizona has a lower crime rate.
4. Cost of living: Oklahoma has a lower cost of living compared to Arizona. Housing costs, utilities, and groceries are generally cheaper in Oklahoma, which may provide more financial stability for families.
5. Opportunities for growth: Arizona's economy is generally stronger compared to Oklahoma. Arizona has a higher median household income, more job opportunities, and a more diverse economy.

Considering these factors, it can be argued that Arizona might be the better state for raising a family overall due to better healthcare, lower crime rates, and more opportunities for growth. However, personal preferences, job opportunities, and other individual factors can greatly influence the decision. It's important to conduct further research and consider what matters most to your family before making a decision.