Why settle for less, when you can have it all in Oklahoma? The state ranks 3rd in disposable income and offers a cost of living 17.8% below the US average. Plus, with 42,000 new jobs expected in 2025, it’s a place where financial security and career growth go hand in hand.
Let’s not forget the seasons—Oklahoma gives you all four! Beyond the changing seasons, Oklahoma City offers urban buzz, Tulsa offers an art scene, and Norman’s university vibe. Let’s explore the best places to live in Oklahoma in great detail to find a perfect fit for you.
What are the Best Places to Live in Oklahoma?
| # City | Weighted Average Scores | Median House Price | Median Income | Cost of Living | Community Wellbeing | Crime Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Bartlesville | 57.88 | $198K | $77K | 24.6% ⬇️ | 51 | 8 |
| 2. Oklahoma City | 53.14 | $258K | $79K | 14.5% ⬇️ | 60 | 6 |
| 3. Bixby | 50.37 | $339K | $111K | 14.7% ⬇️ | 58 | 44 |
| 4. Muskogee | 50.19 | $125K | $54K | 27.3% ⬇️ | 43 | 3 |
| 5. Stillwater | 49.08 | $185K | $73K | 19.1% ⬇️ | 48 | 19 |
| 6. Broken Arrow | 49.04 | $266K | $95K | 14.7% ⬇️ | 47 | 28 |
| 7. Edmond | 46.35 | $388K | $124K | 14.5% ⬇️ | 60 | 24 |
| 8. Yukon | 45.96 | $255K | $93K | 10.1% ⬇️ | 54 | 29 |
| 9. Owasso | 45.72 | $275K | $96K | 14.7% ⬇️ | 49 | 23 |
| 10. Tulsa | 43.53 | $230K | $74K | 14.7% ⬇️ | 58 | 3 |
*These cities are ranked based on our research methodology.
To simplify your search in the Oklahoma housing market, we’ve sorted the top 10 cities into four categories: for young adults, for families, for retirees, and beach towns. Each city is evaluated based on career opportunities, affordability, community wellbeing, and lifestyle.
2 Best Places to Live in Oklahoma for Young Adults 💼
1. Stillwater
- Median House Price: $185K
- Cost of Living: 19.10% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 19% of US cities.
- Unemployment: 5.30%
- Walkability Score: 4; car-dependent city.
If you love game-day energy, a thriving arts scene, and a strong job market, Stillwater is the place to be! Home to Oklahoma State University (OSU), Stillwater is a dynamic college town. Additionally, its prime location between OKC and Tulsa makes it perfect for adults.
OSU football is a full-blown town-wide celebration, at Boone Pickens Stadium every fall. Additionally, Bob Childers’, Gypsy Café annual event keeps the city’s Red Dirt roots alive. Whether it’s college, career growth, or community, Stillwater always delivers.
» Stillwater Homes for Sale: Look for homes in the best place to live in Oklahoma for young adults.
2. Tulsa
- Median House Price: $230K
- Cost of Living: 14.70% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 3% of US cities.
- Unemployment: 5.80%
- Walkability Score: 18; car-dependent city.
Tulsa is Oklahoma’s cultural powerhouse! Home to the University of Tulsa, the city thrives on education, arts, and a strong job market in the healthcare sector with 13.4% of total jobs. Plus, Brady Arts District is a creative hotspot filled with galleries and live performances.
Soccer fans can cheer for FC Tulsa all year round. Besides, you can start your day with a ride on the artificial surfing waves of the Arkansas River. Then, you can refuel with a mouthwatering barbecue at BurnCo. If you’re craving Vietnamese food, don’t miss Binh-Lê!
» Tulsa Homes for Sale: Find Homes in one of the best places to live in OK for young adults.
3 Best Places to Live in Oklahoma for Families 👨👩👧👦
1. Broken Arrow
- Median House Price: $266K
- Cost of Living: 14.70% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 28% of US cities.
- Unemployment: 4.30%
- Walkability Score: 79; very walkable.
Broken Arrow is just a 15-minute drive from Tulsa, but trust us, you’ll feel a world away because of its peaceful atmosphere. This peaceful suburban haven has everything families need—like Nienhuis Park with water slides and Schools that outperform 66.4% of Oklahoma.
But Broken Arrow’s charm goes beyond its parks and schools. The Rose Festival brings the community together with its parade and live shows. Additionally, you can catch high school games at Tiger Field or fill your bellies at The Cowboy Café, a local favorite for families.
» Broken Arrow Homes for Sale: Explore homes in one of the best places to live in Oklahoma for families.
2. Edmond
- Median House Price: $388K
- Cost of Living: 14.50% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 24% of US cities.
- Unemployment: 3.50%
- Walkability Score: 88; very walkable.
Edmond is a suburban oasis with just the right amount of hustle and bustle. With schools that outshine 96.1% of Oklahoma schools, it’s perfect for kids. Additionally, Arcadia Lake and Mitch Park offer year-round activities for the whole family.
But hey, Edmond’s not all about schools and parks. Besides, catch a concert or theater show at Armstrong Auditorium, then celebrate at LibertyFest with a parade, fireworks, and fun for the whole family. Edmond is where family fun meets your need for a little peace.
» Edmond Homes for Sale: Search for homes in one of the best towns to live in Oklahoma.
3. Owasso
- Median House Price: $275K
- Cost of Living: 14.70% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 23% of US cities.
- Unemployment: 4.60%
- Walkability Score: 57; somewhat walkable.
Owasso gives you the best of both worlds—suburban peace with a touch of city action. Centennial Park and Redbud Valley Nature Preserve let you escape into nature. Additionally, Owasso Community Movie Nights bring free outdoor films to Redbud Festival Park.
Beyond this, retail, healthcare, and manufacturing are the largest job sectors, employing over 35% of residents. Overall, Owasso is a growing city that combines the perks of suburban living with proximity to Tulsa, making it ideal for families.
» Owasso Homes for Sale: Explore homes in one of the best places to live in Oklahoma for families.
3 Best Places to Live in Oklahoma for Retirees🏖️
1. Bartlesville
- Median House Price: $198K
- Cost of Living: 24.60% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 8% of US cities.
- Unemployment: 4.10%
- Walkability Score: 70; very walkable.
Tired of the big-city grind? If yes, Bartlesville might just be your escape hatch. The Bartlesville Farmers Market offers fresh produce, while Washington Park Mall features large stores to shop. Additionally, Frank & Lola’s is a local favorite eatery in the downtown area.
Moreover, experience the OKM Music Festival in Bartlesville with live music, interactive workshops, and amazing local food—all in a vibrant yet peaceful setting. Bartlesville attracts retirees with its blend of culture, affordability, and peaceful environment.
» Bartlesville Homes for Sale: Find homes in the best place to live in Oklahoma for retirees.
2. Bixby
- Median House Price: $339K
- Cost of Living: 14.70% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 44% of US cities.
- Unemployment: 3.60%
- Walkability Score: 21; car-dependent city.
Bixby welcomes you with a friendly, laid-back vibe. Unwind with a picnic at Haikey Creek Park, and grab fresh local produce at the Bixby Farmers Market. Additionally, treat yourself to the smoky Southern flavors of Burn Co. Barbecue—just like the locals do!
Bixby offers retirees a calm, low-cost, and accessible environment. Its quiet suburban vibe, and proximity to Tulsa, provide easy access to elderly-care, and emergency services. which makes it one of the best places to live in Oklahoma for retirees.
» Bixby Homes for Sale: Look for properties in one of the best places to live in Oklahoma for retirees.
3. Yukon
- Median House Price: $255K
- Cost of Living: 10.10% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 29% of US cities.
- Unemployment: 4.00%
- Walkability Score: 36; car-dependent city.
Just 17 miles west of OKC, Yukon is where the sunsets are long, and the traffic is nonexistent. The city is full of venues that serve amazing local cuisine with live local music. Additionally, the Yukon Round-Up Rodeo is a famous event in August each year.
Moreover, Yukon’s low cost of living and easy access to hospitals like Mercy Health make it ideal for retirees who seek a peaceful lifestyle. Retirees can thrive in Yukon while still being close to Oklahoma City’s top-notch healthcare.
» Yukon Homes for Sale: Explore homes in one of the best places to live in Oklahoma for retirees.
2 Best Places to Live in Oklahoma for Black Families
1. Oklahoma City
- Median House Price: $258K
- Cost of Living: 14.50% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 6% of US cities.
- Unemployment: 4.50%
- Walkability Score: 57; somewhat walkable.
Looking for a city with character and charm? OKC will surprise you. Home to the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, the city is a hub for healthcare. Moreover, with over 13% of the Black population, you’ll find a welcoming community that celebrates your heritage.
Besides, Scissortail Park is perfect for recreation, while teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Oklahoma City Energy FC keep the energy high year-round. The city’s commitment to inclusivity makes it a great place for Black families to thrive.
» Oklahoma City Homes for Sale: Search homes in the best place to live in Oklahoma for black families.
2. Muskogee
- Median House Price: $125K
- Cost of Living: 27.30% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 3% of US cities.
- Unemployment: 6.50%
- Walkability Score: 8; car-dependent city.
Known for its native American heritage, Muskogee is situated along the Arkansas River. Nearby, Honor Heights Park offers tranquility while Creek Nation Casino is known for wild night-outs. Additionally, the Oklahoma Renaissance is a unique medieval theme festival.
Muskogee is a diverse community, with 15.1% of its population being Black, creating a rich cultural mix. Apart from this, it offers strong public schools and healthcare services, with Muskogee Public Schools and Saint Francis Hospital leading the way.
» Muskogee Homes for Sale: Find homes in one of the best places to live in Oklahoma for black families.
Mortgage Pre-Approval: Your First Step to Buy a Home 🏡
Mortgage pre-approval simplifies the home-buying process by giving you a clear picture of your budget and borrowing capacity. Additionally, the sellers are more likely to accept your offer if you’re pre-approved since it shows you’re a serious buyer.
With the current low mortgage rate of 6.7%, there is an increase in home-buying demand in Oklahoma. So, don’t wait. Get a mortgage pre-approval today and avoid bidding wars!
Is Oklahoma a Good Place to Live?
The cost of living in Oklahoma is significantly lower than the national average, making it one of the best places to live in the U.S. With an impressive disposable income ranking and a growing economy, it’s an ideal place to settle down.
Plus, the state’s average job growth rate of 2.3% ensures plenty of career opportunities for you. Whether you’re drawn to Tulsa’s vibrant arts scene or Norman’s academic environment, you’ll find a community that fits your lifestyle.
Research Methodology for the Best Cities to Live in Oklahoma
This study ranks cities using a weighted average scoring model based on eight parameters. We’ve linked the resources used in our study of the best places to live in The Sooner State:
- Redfin[1]: Median House Price
- Zipatlas[2]: Population, Median Income, Expenses, Unemployment Rate
- Salary.com[3]: Cost of Living
- Sharecare[4]: Community Well-Being
- Neighborhoodscout[5]: Crime Index Score
The total score for each city combines a weighted score for its rank. Here’s the weightage: population (10%), home price (20%), income (20%), expenses (15%), unemployment (15%), cost of living (10%), crime index (5%), and well-being (5%).
Additionally, we have listed the good cities to live in Oklahoma for varying demographics. These include the best places to live for families, young adults, and retirees.
