Oklahoma, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and friendly communities, offers a unique living experience. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of living in Oklahoma to help you make an informed decision about relocating to the Sooner State. From its affordable cost of living to extreme weather conditions, we’ll cover everything you need to know.
Navigation Guide
93% of users select this mover |
Philadelphia Movers
91% of users select this mover |
South Hills Movers
88% of users select this mover |
Ever Safe Moving
87% of users select this mover |
Don Farr Moving
88% of users select this mover |
The Pros of Living in Oklahoma
Affordable Cost of Living
Oklahoma is known for its affordable cost of living, making it an attractive place to reside.
Low Housing Costs: The average home price in Oklahoma is significantly lower than the national average. According to Zillow Research, the median home value in Oklahoma is approximately $150,000, compared to the national median of $376,000. This makes homeownership more accessible to many residents.
Low Taxes: Oklahoma boasts low tax rates, which contribute to its affordability. The state income tax ranges from 0.5% to 5%, and property taxes are also relatively low, averaging about 0.87% of the property value, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
| Housing Costs Comparison (2023) | Oklahoma | National Average |
| Median Home Value | $150,000 | $376,000 |
| Property Tax Rate | 0.87% | 1.07% |
Strong Job Market
Oklahoma has a robust job market with diverse opportunities across various sectors.
Low Unemployment Rate: The state’s unemployment rate is consistently lower than the national average. As of 2023, Oklahoma’s unemployment rate was 3.1%, compared to the national rate of 3.6%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
High Median Income: The median household income in Oklahoma is around $55,000. Key sectors driving the economy include energy, agriculture, and healthcare, offering diverse job opportunities.
| Employment Data (2023) | Oklahoma | National Average |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.1% | 3.6% |
| Median Household Income | $55,000 | $68,700 |
High Quality of Life
Oklahoma provides a high quality of life characterized by safe communities and access to outdoor activities.
Safe Communities: Oklahoma has lower crime rates compared to many other states. According to City-Data.com, cities like Edmond and Norman have crime rates well below the national average.
Access to Outdoor Activities: Residents enjoy numerous outdoor activities, from exploring state parks to fishing in lakes. Popular recreational areas include the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge and Beavers Bend State Park.
The Cons of Living in Oklahoma:
Extreme Weather Conditions
One of the main drawbacks of living in Oklahoma is the extreme weather.
Tornadoes: Oklahoma is part of Tornado Alley and experiences frequent tornadoes. According to the National Weather Service, the state averages about 67 tornadoes per year, which can significantly impact daily life.
Hot Summers: Summers in Oklahoma can be extremely hot, with average temperatures reaching 95°F. Residents need to be prepared to cope with the heat.
| Weather Data (2023) | Oklahoma | National Average |
| Average Tornadoes per Year | 67 | 25 |
| Average Summer Temperature | 95°F | 85°F |
Limited Public Transportation
Public transportation options in Oklahoma are limited, making personal vehicles essential.
Dependence on Personal Vehicles: The lack of extensive public transit means most residents rely on cars for transportation. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), public transit coverage is low compared to larger cities.
Rural Living Challenges: Living in rural areas of Oklahoma can pose challenges, such as longer distances to major cities and limited access to services and amenities.
Education Quality
Education quality in Oklahoma varies and can be a concern for families.
Public School Rankings: Oklahoma’s public schools often rank below the national average. Key challenges include funding and teacher shortages, as reported by the American Community Survey (ACS).
Higher Education Opportunities: While there are reputable universities like the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University, the availability of programs and courses may be limited compared to larger states.
FAQs
Is Oklahoma a good place to live?
Oklahoma offers an affordable cost of living and a high quality of life but comes with challenges like extreme weather and limited public transportation.
What is the cost of living in Oklahoma?
The cost of living in Oklahoma is lower than the national average, particularly in terms of housing and taxes.
How bad are the tornadoes in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma experiences frequent tornadoes, averaging about 67 per year, which can significantly impact daily life.
What are the job opportunities in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has a strong job market with opportunities in sectors like energy, agriculture, and healthcare.
What are the best cities to live in Oklahoma?
Some of the best cities to live in Oklahoma include Edmond, Norman, and Oklahoma City, each offering a range of amenities and a high quality of life.
Living in Oklahoma comes with its set of pros and cons. The state offers an affordable cost of living, a strong job market, and a high quality of life, but also presents challenges like extreme weather and limited public transportation. Whether you’re considering a move or just curious about life in this state, understanding the pros and cons of living in Oklahoma will help you make an informed decision. If you’re moving from California to Oklahoma, this guide will be especially useful.
References
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
- Zillow Research
- Bureau of Labor Statistics
- American Community Survey
- City-Data.com
- National Weather Service
- Bureau of Transportation Statistics