Oklahoma, more known as the superstate, offers a unique blend of small town charm and a diverse experience for its residents. It is known for its rich Native American history and culture, with 38 tribal nations and a variety of historical sites and museums. Oklahoma has a rich natural beauty and scenic landscape, and while there are many reasons to live there, it has its drawbacks. So, whether you’re looking for a home for sale in Oklahoma City, a Tulsa apartment, or wondering if Oklahoma is a good place to live, read the pros and cons of the 10 people living in Oklahoma before calling a home in this state.
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Quick Facts About Oklahoma
Population 3,959,353 Central Home Selling Prices Average Rent in Oklahoma 243,600 $1,056 Oklahoma Oklahoma City’s largest city, Tulsa, Norman
Is Oklahoma a good place to live?
Oklahoma is a sure option for anyone looking for affordable prices, a friendly community and room to breathe. The state offers a culture rooted in a slower pace of living, a growing job market, and a service and resilience. However, residents may find the lack of major urban amenities and limited cultural options a drawback, especially if they are used to a fast-paced urban lifestyle. Whether it’s a good fit really depends on your priorities – if affordability and community are the most important, Oklahoma could be the perfect place to call your home.
1. Pro: Oklahoma is affordable to live in
Oklahoma stands out as one of the most affordable places to live in the United States, and is particularly appealing to first-time home buyers and those looking to grow their dollars. Everything from food to gas tends to be lower here, and residents often find their incomes are expanding even further, without having to compromise on space or comfort. The median home sale price is $243,600 (almost half the national median), making it much more accessible here than many other parts of the US, but affordability doesn’t stop at real estate. Oklahoma is the second cheapest state in the entire state thanks to low costs of food, healthcare, transportation and utilities. Property taxes are reasonable and there is no shortage of small towns and medium-sized cities where your money will go further.
2. CON: Some areas have weak infrastructure
Oklahoma’s affordable prices are a big draw, but the state’s infrastructure doesn’t always keep up. With roads in more rural areas in the state inadequately maintained and public transport is limited or nonexistent, reliable internet access is still a hit or miss. Severe storms and extreme weather can strain local systems, from blackouts to flood-prone roads. In some cities, aging infrastructure means dealing with peak holes, outdated water systems, or traffic jams. Even in big cities like Tulsa and Oklahoma City, aging infrastructure and limited public transport options can pose challenges for carless residents. These issues can have any impact, from commuting time to access to healthcare, so it is worth considering how your local infrastructure will affect your daily life, depending on where you choose to live.
3. Pro: Oklahoma has a strong job market in major sectors
Oklahoma’s job market is stable and diverse, with solid opportunities across several major industries. Energy continues to be the backbone of the state’s economy, with oil and natural gas companies offering a wide range of roles. Agriculture, aerospace, healthcare and logistics are also making significant contributions to employment, particularly in Oklahoma City and Tulsa. In recent years, high-tech and manufacturing have also grown, attracting both skilled merchants and experts. While the state may not have the amount of jobs found in metropolitan areas, the relatively low unemployment rate (3.3%) and the growing sector is a strong option for job seekers looking for stable, long-term opportunities.
4. CON: Natural disasters are prone to occur
Oklahoma is known for its harsh weather, especially for its tornadoes. The state is located in an area known as the Tornado Array, which includes parts of Texas, Kansas and Nebraska. The region has experienced many tornadoes due to the combination of warm, humid air from the Gulf of Mexico and cool, dry air from rocky mountains. Residents also experience severe thunderstorms, h and flash floods. It is essential for residents to prepare for harsh weather and develop emergency evacuation plans.
5. Pro: A friendly, community-focused culture
Oklahoma is known for its “small town vibe” despite its growing city. People are friendly and welcoming, and often get out of the way to help each other. Oklahoma’s strong sense of community is deeply rooted in the “Oklahoma Standard,” a statewide initiative that promotes a culture of compassion, service and kindness. This initiative encourages residents to engage in acts of service, honor and kindness, and to make it the basis of national identity. Whether helping out during natural disasters, helping out local businesses, or simply checking in with your neighbors, Oklahomans take pride in helping out whenever they need it. The result is a close, welcoming environment where people really care about each other. This spirit extends beyond small towns to metropolitan cities such as Oklahoma City and Tulsa, creating a unique blend of rural warmth and urban communities. Oklahoma offers a supportive and friendly atmosphere that is hard to beat for those who want to live in a place where people don’t get in the way of help.
6. CON: You need a car to avoid it
Living in a faster state can present challenges to those who rely on public transport. There are limited public transport options, and most cities and towns rely primarily on bus systems where schedules and routes may be limited. Additionally, many rural areas of Oklahoma do not have public transport options, making it difficult for residents to access essential services and resources. This lack of public transport can create barriers for people who cannot access their cars. However, in recent years, Oklahoma has been working to improve public transport options, including expanding bus routes, partnering with ride companies, and implementing bike sharing programs in some areas.
7. Pro: Home to amazing BBQ
Oklahoma is well known for its barbecue culture, with many barbecue joints and competitions throughout the state. “Oklahoma Style” BBQ, which combines Texan and Kansas City-style BBQ, is particularly well known. It usually comes with smoked meats such as beef brisket, pork and sausage, and comes with a tomato-based sauce. Oklahoma has many BBQ festivals and events, including the annual Oklahoma Pork and BBQ Festival, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
8. CON: Amenities and entertainment in limited metropolitan cities
Oklahoma City and Tulsa are growing, but they still don’t match the size and diversity of large urban products. Cultural events, nightlife and high-end dining options are more limited, and long distances must be driven for specialized services and experiences, such as certain types of shopping, entertainment, and international cuisine. Public transport is limited, and walking is less common outside some downtown areas, with relatively few late-night options. For those who thrive in the fast and endless entertainment of big cities, Oklahoma may feel a bit quiet and limited.
9. Pro: There is a wide range of recreational activities
For outdoor enthusiasts, Oklahoma is a hidden gem. There are a variety of outdoor activities thanks to the different landscapes, including plains, forests, and mountains. With the state having more than 200 parks, wildlife shelters and national forests, entering nature doesn’t require long drives or dealing with intense crowds. Popular places like the Wichita Mountains and many lakes in the state give residents many ways to spend time outside.
10. CON: Summer gets hot and humid
The Oklahoma Summers are usually warm and hot, ranging from the high ’90s to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The state experiences high humidity, suppresses the air and increases the heat index. It also prone to drought and affects crops and water resources. During the summer you will want to prepare your home for droughts to protect your property.
