Oklahoma City, often referred to as “The Big Friendly,” is a place where Southern hospitality meets modern amenities. With its wide-open spaces, thriving job market, and growing arts scene, it’s no wonder that more people are considering making OKC their home. However, life in this rapidly growing city comes with its own set of challenges. So whether you’re searching for a modern apartment in Bricktown or a cozy bungalow apartment in Paseo, you’ve come to the right place.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore the various pros and cons of living in Oklahoma City, helping you decide if this dynamic city is the right place for you.
Fast Facts About Living in Oklahoma City
- What Oklahoma City is known for: Known for its deep-rooted Western heritage
- Fun fact: Home to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
- Population: Over 680,000 residents in Oklahoma City proper; over 1.4 million in the metro area
- Average rent: $1,011 per month for a one-bedroom apartment
- Median home sale price: $262,000
- Days of sunshine: Approximately 231 days per year
- Public parks: More than 150 parks within the city
- Average summer high temperature: 94°F (34°C)
- Major industries: Energy, aviation, healthcare, and technology
1. Pro: Thriving job market
Oklahoma City offers a robust and diverse job market, particularly in sectors like energy, aviation, healthcare, and technology. The city’s economy is bolstered by the presence of major companies and institutions that offer a wide range of employment opportunities. In addition to the energy giants and aerospace companies, the healthcare sector is anchored by renowned medical centers, while the tech industry is rapidly expanding, providing a dynamic environment for career growth.
Top employers in Oklahoma City
- Devon Energy
- Boeing
- Integris Health
- Chesapeake Energy
- Paycom
2. Pro: Affordable cost of living
The cost of living in Oklahoma City is one of its most appealing aspects, being 15% lower than the national average. Housing is especially affordable, with costs 33% less than the national average. The median sale price for a home in Oklahoma City is around $262,000, and the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Oklahoma City is approximately $1,011 per month. Additionally, utilities are 3% less, groceries are 6% less, and transportation costs are 4% lower compared to the national average. While healthcare is slightly more expensive, the overall cost of living in Oklahoma City makes it an attractive option for residents looking to maximize their budget.
3. Con: Weather extremes
Oklahoma City experiences a full range of weather, from hot, humid summers to cold, windy winters. The area is also prone to severe weather events, including tornadoes, which can be a concern for residents. The city’s weather extremes can make living here a challenge for those who prefer a more temperate climate.
4. Pro: Growing arts and culture scene
Oklahoma City’s arts and culture scene is growing, offering residents a wide range of galleries, theaters, and museums to enjoy. The revitalized downtown area is a hub of creativity, with the Paseo Arts District and Plaza District leading the way. These neighborhoods are home to a vibrant mix of local artists, unique galleries, and eclectic boutiques. The city also hosts numerous cultural events, such as the Paseo Arts Festival and the Plaza District Festival, which draw visitors and locals alike.
5. Con: Traffic congestion
As Oklahoma City continues to grow, so does its traffic congestion. While the city’s layout and infrastructure are generally efficient, rush hour traffic can be frustrating, particularly on major highways like I-35 and I-40. While public transportation is available, many residents rely on cars, contributing to the traffic challenges.
6. Pro: Welcoming neighborhoods with community focus
Oklahoma City is known for its inviting neighborhoods that offer a strong sense of community, beautiful parks, and convenient access to local amenities. Areas like Nichols Hills, Edmond, and Crown Heights are particularly sought after for their tree-lined streets, well-maintained parks, and close-knit community atmosphere. These neighborhoods also provide easy access to top-rated schools, making them desirable for those who value education and a supportive environment. Residents in these areas enjoy a blend of suburban tranquility with the convenience of nearby shopping, dining, and recreational activities.
7. Con: Limited public transportation options
Public transportation in Oklahoma City is not as extensive or convenient as in larger cities. The city’s bus system, operated by EMBARK, covers much of the metro area, but routes can be limited in both scope and frequency, especially in suburban and outlying areas. This makes it challenging for residents without a car to navigate the city efficiently. Additionally, while Oklahoma City is making strides in becoming more walkable and bike-friendly, many areas still require a car for daily errands.
Oklahoma City’s transportation scores
- Walk score: 34
- Transit score: 17
- Bike score: 40
8. Pro: Proximity to outdoor recreation
Oklahoma City’s location provides easy access to a variety of outdoor recreational activities. The city is close to several lakes, including Lake Hefner and Lake Thunderbird, which offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. Additionally, the nearby Wichita Mountains provide more options for outdoor adventures.
Commute times to popular outdoor recreation spots
- Lake Hefner: 15 minutes by car
- Lake Thunderbird: 30 minutes by car
- Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge: 1.5 hours by car
- Arbuckle Mountains: 1.5 hours by car
- Chickasaw National Recreation Area: 1 hour by car
9. Con: Urban sprawl
Oklahoma City’s vast size contributes to urban sprawl, with neighborhoods spread out over a large area. This can make commuting long distances a daily reality for some residents, and it also means that access to certain amenities may require a bit of a drive.
10. Pro: Strong community spirit
Oklahoma City is known for its strong community spirit and welcoming atmosphere. The city’s residents are proud of their hometown, and this pride is evident in the numerous events and festivals held throughout the year, such as the Oklahoma State Fair, Festival of the Arts, and the Red Earth Festival, which celebrate the city’s diverse culture and heritage. Neighborhoods often come together for local events, block parties, and volunteer initiatives, fostering close-knit communities where neighbors look out for one another.
11. Con: High sales tax
Oklahoma City has one of the highest combined sales tax rates in the country, which can significantly add to the cost of everyday purchases. The current rate, which includes city, county, and state taxes, can be as high as 8.625%, making it more expensive to buy goods and services. This is particularly noticeable when making large purchases, such as electronics or appliances, where the tax can add a substantial amount to the final price. Although Oklahoma does not have a state income tax, which can be a relief for many residents, the high sales tax can still impact the overall cost of living, especially for those on a tight budget.
12. Pro: Diverse dining and food scene
Oklahoma City’s dining scene is as diverse as its population, offering a wide range of cuisines that cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether you’re craving classic Southern comfort food, innovative modern American dishes, or international flavors from around the world, the city has something to satisfy every palate. The local food culture is vibrant, with everything from food trucks and casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
Popular restaurants in Oklahoma City
- Cattlemen’s Steakhouse
- The Mule
- Cheever’s Cafe
- Vast
- Tucker’s Onion Burgers
13. Pro: Rich history and cultural heritage
Oklahoma City boasts a rich history and cultural heritage that is deeply woven into the fabric of the city. This heritage is reflected in its many historic neighborhoods, such as Heritage Hills and Crown Heights, where beautifully preserved homes tell the story of the city’s past. Landmarks like the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum honor the resilience of the community, while the Stockyards City historic district offers a glimpse into the city’s Western roots and cattle trading history.
Pros & cons of living in Oklahoma City, OK (Summary)
- Pro: Thriving job market
- Pro: Affordable cost of living
- Con: Weather extremes
- Pro: Growing arts and culture scene
- Con: Traffic congestion
- Pro: Welcoming neighborhoods with community focus
- Con: Limited public transportation options
- Pro: Proximity to outdoor recreation
- Con: Urban sprawl
- Pro: Strong community spirit
- Con: High sales tax
- Pro: Diverse dining and food scene
- Pro: Rich history and cultural heritage