Oklahoma, affectionately known as the “Sooner State,” presents a unique blend of plains, prairies, and growing urban centers. This south-central state, with a population of over 4 million [Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2023], attracts people with its lower cost of living, diverse culture, and central location. But, is Oklahoma truly a good place to live? The answer, as with any location, depends heavily on individual preferences, priorities, and expectations. While the median home price in Oklahoma is $229,000 as of October 2024 [Source: Zillow], compared to the national median of $348,000, several other factors contribute to the state’s desirability. Let’s explore these facets in detail.
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1. Cost of Living
The cost of living significantly impacts everyday life. A lower cost generally means greater financial freedom and an easier path to affordability.
According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, Oklahoma consistently ranks among the most affordable states in the US. The state’s composite index was 87.5 in the 3rd quarter of 2024, below the national average of 100 [Source: C2ER Cost of Living Index]. This index encompasses housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and other services.
For those looking for budget-friendly living, Oklahoma should be a top consideration compared to other states that may have coastal locations and high-population areas. Lower utility bills can provide added savings compared to other states with harsh weather climates or high taxes for a more accurate analysis.
2. Job Market & Economy
A strong job market is a crucial factor for most people seeking to relocate, directly impacting earning potential and long-term stability.
Oklahoma’s unemployment rate was around 3.4% in September 2024 [Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics]. Key industries include energy (oil & gas), aerospace, agriculture, and healthcare. Recent growth in sectors such as cybersecurity and fintech have expanded employment opportunities. Forbes, in a 2023 report, cited a notable year-over-year growth of tech-based business expansion.
Focus on applying to Oklahoma industries based on educational experience or specific career interests that have projected increases in potential job opportunities, particularly in health care or emerging tech business fields. Review the job outlook reports provided by the Bureau of Labor Statics.
3. Climate & Weather
Weather significantly affects daily life and the enjoyment of outdoor activities. The weather in Oklahoma has its positives and negatives when assessing a quality of life standard.
Oklahoma experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and relatively mild but volatile winters. The state is located within the central U.S. and is known for periods of heavy storms in spring and fall as weather transitions, including tornadoes (though not always extreme). Tornado Alley has some consideration for many when deciding the location of the house or purchasing weatherproof features that add property protection for homes. According to the NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center, the period between May and September has the most frequent storm events. The temperatures generally are warm from spring through fall, with mild temperatures around 40 degrees in winter and High temperatures at 90 degrees in summer. Humidity conditions can often fluctuate between moderate and heavy for both humidity and heat indexes.
Consider a home tornado/weather shelter option in your decision-making for areas with a strong threat. Look to ensure proper protection for homes by implementing strong storm protection for severe storm weather patterns.
4. Culture and Recreation
Cultural and recreational opportunities enrich the quality of life through hobbies, education, art, museums, social engagement with residents, and personal investment in the city or area.
Oklahoma boasts a rich Native American history with a strong influence on its artistic development with diverse historical collections. Oklahoma City has emerged as one of America’s top 50 urban cities in terms of population growth as of a June 2024 article from WalletHub’s research analysis team. Furthermore, museums and local attractions provide year-long educational and artistic value for area residents and visitors alike with numerous options like First Americans Museum, Oklahoma City Museum of Art, and Oklahoma Zoo, in addition to live music scenes, local markets, historical neighborhoods, and a diverse culinary experience with regional restaurant chains that span multiple culinary flavors.
Invest time learning more about regional culture in various areas or towns and enjoy a day exploring those towns’ local attractions. Review historical and tourist spots during non-peak times so there is time and a leisurely pace to visit a wide array of options, from art museums to zoos to historic districts.
5. Education
Strong public and higher educational institutions provide more pathways to a successful future for students within the area and a quality environment to support higher educational and trade-based industries in the state.
Oklahoma offers many higher educational opportunities, such as the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University, several trade programs, and options within many technical and secondary schools and colleges, as well as higher education programs that are accredited through multiple accredited academic agencies for certifications. As reported by the Oklahoma Department of Education for state reporting in September 2024, the K-12 average number of students in district public schooling for school-aged kids is projected at about 698,500. Multiple reports and educational analyses have also demonstrated the need to address student funding gaps that impact a school’s budget by district locations to be of high interest, as well as to impact future school ratings and performance among different areas of the state as the population increases.
Look into individual district areas to determine a quality public educational system before solidifying home purchases or choosing a different district. Invest time researching district and individual school score reports as an added measure of research to assess what fits family needs before enrollment begins.
Conclusion
Is Oklahoma a good place to live? While it offers undeniable affordability and a growing job market, factors like extreme weather may pose challenges for some. Your answer will likely vary based on what factors meet each individual’s set of personal expectations, as many benefits are associated with Oklahoma living along with its own inherent risks to the region as it stands on climate or cultural growth. Consider weighing what matches needs versus overall risks if one is contemplating living in Oklahoma before moving. Oklahoma is an ideal place to explore further if you are someone seeking a lower cost of living, potential career growth, and exposure to a diverse culture. To further personalize your insights about living in Oklahoma, connect with one of our expert management professionals who can discuss rental services. Contact us for a free quote on renting today!
People Also Ask About Living in Oklahoma
Does Oklahoma experience extreme weather?
Yes, Oklahoma can have unpredictable weather with spring and fall weather conditions such as high wind and periods of storms, while Summer's months typically include heat waves with humidity, winter temperatures tend to hover at 40 degree weather in most of central areas. The state is located within the geographical center of an area sometimes nicknamed as "Tornado Alley," experiencing various weather fluctuations and severe storm patterns through each Spring/Summer season.[Source: NOAA Storm Prediction Center].
Is the Oklahoma job market experiencing any growth trends in certain industries?
Yes, many emerging and expanding companies are showing significant employment growth trends. While certain traditional industries provide key sources for job opportunities, there is projected increased job availability throughout various areas, particularly in those areas of new technologies such as cybersecurity and health industries within the state. [Source: Forbes 2023 research on Oklahoma employment trends ]
What cultural and entertainment options are available in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has a rich culture influenced by diverse regions within Oklahoma. You can expect to enjoy arts and crafts festivals, cultural events, music, and various styles of theatrical stage performances. Various historical and native museums or galleries exist alongside local entertainment, such as shopping and outdoor nature hikes for residents and visitors alike. The cuisine offers many regional styles ranging from diverse barbeque to Tex-Mex. [Source: Oklahoma State Tourism].
Is Oklahoma an affordable place to live compared to other states?
Yes, Oklahoma generally has a significantly lower cost of living than many other US states, particularly when it comes to housing and utility costs [Source: C2ER Cost of Living Index, 2024]. The average median housing pricing is significantly below the national average across most markets in terms of housing purchase sales.
What are the primary job industries in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma’s primary job sectors include energy (oil and gas), aerospace, agriculture, and healthcare. There has been growing investment and growth in new tech-based business areas across the state. [Source: Oklahoma Department of Commerce].
Does Oklahoma experience extreme weather?
Yes, Oklahoma can have unpredictable weather with spring and fall weather conditions such as high winds and periods of storms. While summer months typically include heat waves with humidity, winter temperatures tend to hover at 40 degrees in most central areas. The state is located within the geographical center of an area sometimes nicknamed "Tornado Alley," experiencing various weather fluctuations and severe storm patterns through each Spring/Summer season.[Source: NOAA Storm Prediction Center].
