Those considering moving to Oklahoma may wonder what makes this state stand out. Known for its diverse economy, Oklahoma is home to a variety of industries that attract home buyers and renters alike. Whether you’re looking for a home for sale in Oklahoma City or an apartment in Tulsa, you’ll find plenty of job and affordable living opportunities. Oklahoma’s major industries include energy, aerospace, and agriculture, each of which contributes significantly to the state’s economy. Here are Oklahoma’s top 10 industries and why you should consider making Oklahoma your next home.
Oklahoma Overview: Home Prices, Income, and Employment
Top Employers in Oklahoma
Walmart: 38,000 employees Amazon: 14,500 employees Integris Health: 11,500 employees Hobby Lobby: 8,300 employees Saint Francis Health System: 8,300 employees
Oklahoma’s 10 Major Industries
1. Energy
Major Employers: Devon Energy (Oklahoma City), ONEOK (Tulsa), Chesapeake Energy (Oklahoma City)
Oklahoma’s energy industry is powered by oil and natural gas, with companies such as Devon Energy and Chesapeake Energy headquartered in the state. Jobs in this field range from engineering and geology to operations and management positions. The energy sector is a major contributor to the state’s economy, contributing $55.7 billion to the state’s GDP in 2023. Residents benefit from the affordable living and job security that this growing industry provides.
Considering moving to Oklahoma to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Oklahoma City or Tulsa.
2. Aerospace and Defense
Major Employers: Tinker Air Force Base (Oklahoma City), American Airlines Maintenance Base (Tulsa), Spirit AeroSystems (Oklahoma locations)
Aerospace and defense is one of Oklahoma’s fastest growing industries, with locations in Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Job titles include aircraft mechanics, engineers, and project managers. The state’s strategic location and supporting infrastructure attracts major employers to set up operations here. Oklahoma’s low cost of living makes it an attractive location for professionals in this field.
Considering moving to Oklahoma to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Tulsa or Oklahoma City.
3. Agriculture and agribusiness
Major Employers: Tyson Foods (Oklahoma location), Oklahoma Farm Bureau (Oklahoma City), Seaboard Foods (Oklahoma location)
Oklahoma has deep agricultural roots, with agribusiness supporting food production, livestock management, and logistics jobs. Tyson Foods and Seaboard Foods are important players in this space. The state’s fertile land and agricultural resources ensure stable industry for those looking for work in rural and urban areas.
Considering moving to Oklahoma to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Norman or Oklahoma City.
4. Healthcare and Bioscience
Major Employers: INTEGRIS Health (Oklahoma City), Hillcrest HealthCare System (Tulsa), Mercy Hospital (Oklahoma City)
Oklahoma’s healthcare industry continues to expand, providing opportunities for doctors, nurses, and healthcare administrators. INTEGRIS Health and Hillcrest HealthCare System offer a competitive job market and state-of-the-art facilities. This growth will ensure quality care for our residents and stable employment for our medical professionals. Oklahoma City and the surrounding area is a great place to live for people in the healthcare field, with affordable housing.
Considering moving to Oklahoma to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Tulsa or Oklahoma City.
5. Manufacturing
Major Employers: Whirlpool (Oklahoma location), Michelin (Ardmore location), Baker Hughes (Oklahoma location)
Oklahoma’s manufacturing sector ranges from consumer electronics to aerospace parts. Whirlpool operations in Tulsa and the Michelin factory in Ardmore are major employers. This industry supports high-tech jobs and production roles. Its central location provides easy access to major markets and is a manufacturing hub.
Considering moving to Oklahoma to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Tulsa or Ardmore.
6. Technology and IT
Major Employers: Paycom (Oklahoma City), CACI International (Oklahoma City location), OGE Energy Corp. (Oklahoma City)
Accounting for 8% of the state’s workforce and $6.5 billion of GDP, Oklahoma’s technology industry is growing and provides jobs in software development, cybersecurity, and IT support. Paycom and OGE Energy Corp. are leading the way with cutting-edge innovation and solid hiring practices. The state’s business-friendly environment fosters the growth of startups and established technology companies. Affordable Housing attracts technical experts from across the country.
Considering moving to Oklahoma to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Oklahoma City or Moore.
7. Retail and wholesale trade
Major Employers: Hobby Lobby (Oklahoma City), QuikTrip (Tulsa), Walmart (Oklahoma locations)
The retail and wholesale industry employs thousands of people across Oklahoma in administrative, logistics, and customer service roles. Hobby Lobby and QuikTrip are major contributors to the state’s economy. The growth of this industry may ensure opportunities for career advancement. Oklahoma’s central location and strong infrastructure make it a regional trade center.
Considering moving to Oklahoma to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Tulsa or Broken Arrow.
8. Education
Major Employers: University of Oklahoma (Norman), Oklahoma State University (Stillwater), Tulsa Public Schools (Tulsa)
Oklahoma’s education sector includes universities, public schools, and private institutions that offer teaching, administrative, and research roles. The University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University are top employers shaping the state’s future workforce. Affordable living and quality education make Oklahoma an attractive destination for educators.
Considering moving to Oklahoma to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Norman or Stillwater.
9. Transportation and logistics
Major Employers: BNSF Railway (Oklahoma location), FedEx (Oklahoma location), Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores (Oklahoma City)
Transportation and logistics play an important role in Oklahoma’s economy and include jobs in warehousing, trucking, and supply chain management. Love’s Travel Stops is a major employer headquartered in Oklahoma City. Our central location in the state makes us ideal for businesses that require an extensive distribution network. Residents enjoy career advancement and an affordable cost of living.
Considering moving to Oklahoma to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Oklahoma City or Tulsa.
10. Tourism and hospitality
Major Employers: Chickasaw Nation (Ada), Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation (Oklahoma City), Marriott International (Oklahoma locations)
Oklahoma’s tourism and hospitality industry thrives on cultural landmarks, casinos, and recreational opportunities. The Chickasaw Nation and the Oklahoma Department of Tourism are major employers in this key sector. The work is diverse, from event planning to customer service. The state’s welcoming communities and great amenities make it a great place to live and work.
Considering moving to Oklahoma to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Ada or Oklahoma City.
