Considering a move to Oklahoma? The Sooner State has various lifestyles shaped by its deep-rooted history, expansive plains, and mix of urban and rural living. From the energy of Oklahoma City to the artistic flair of Tulsa, renters will find diverse opportunities to explore and grow. But life in Oklahoma isn’t without its challenges—think unpredictable weather and limited public transportation. In this article, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of living in Oklahoma, giving you insight on if Oklahoma is a good place to live.
Is Oklahoma a good place to live?
Oklahoma has affordability, culture, and opportunity for a slower way of life. The state’s largest cities—Oklahoma City and Tulsa—are economic hubs. You’ll find great downtown districts and diverse job opportunities in industries like aerospace, energy, and healthcare. Oklahoma City blends metropolitan living with a community feel, offering top-notch attractions like the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and the Myriad Botanical Gardens. Tulsa, with its historic Art Deco architecture and music history, has plenty of festivals, theaters, and unique districts like Cherry Street. For a slower pace, smaller towns like Norman and Stillwater provide a college-town charm.
Culturally, Oklahoma is deeply connected to its Native American heritage, with 38 tribal nations contributing to the state’s identity. Museums like the First Americans Museum and events such as powwows highlight this history. The state’s cost of living is a major draw, with rent and everyday expenses typically below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious renters. Major employers include Tinker Air Force Base, Devon Energy, and the University of Oklahoma, offering a mix of government, private sector, and academic opportunities.
Oklahoma state overview
| Population | 3,959,353 |
| Biggest cities in Oklahoma | Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman |
| Average rent in Oklahoma City | $1,055 |
| Average rent in Tulsa | $954 |
| Average rent in Norman | $889 |
1. Pro: Rent for less and keep more
Oklahoma is one of the cheapest states to live in, and renting is no exception. Whether you’re in Oklahoma City or Tulsa, you’ll find rent prices far below the national average. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in OKC’s Bricktown District averages around $1,000 per month—practically a steal compared to other metro areas like Dallas or Denver. Affordable rents also mean you can enjoy more local experiences, like indulging in some fried catfish at a roadside diner or snagging tickets to Thunder basketball games without feeling the pinch.
2. Con: Weather roulette—tornadoes and more
Living in Oklahoma means rolling the dice with Mother Nature. The state sits in Tornado Alley, so severe weather is a given. Tornado sirens blaring in the middle of the night? That’s a normal Tuesday in spring. And it’s not just tornadoes—you’ll also get ice storms that turn roads into skating rinks in winter, and summers so hot your flip-flops might melt on the pavement. If you’re renting, be sure to ask about storm shelters and property insulation.
Insider scoop: Renters should check out the Oklahoma Emergency Management website for a list of community tornado shelters. It’s worth knowing where you’ll need to head if your rental doesn’t have a storm-safe area.
3. Pro: Barbecue, fry bread, and endless comfort food
Oklahoma’s food scene is all about comfort. From the smoky barbecue joints lining Tulsa’s Route 66 to the mouthwatering Native American fry bread served at cultural events, your taste buds will thank you. Don’t forget the state’s love affair with chicken-fried steak and onion burgers.
Insider scoop: Head to Leo’s Bar-B-Q in Oklahoma City for mouth-watering ribs, or visit BurnCo Barbeque in Tulsa for their legendary smoked sausage. Both spots are local legends.
4. Con: No subways or streetcars here
Public transportation in Oklahoma is practically non-existent outside a few bus routes in OKC and Tulsa. For most renters, having a car isn’t just helpful—it’s mandatory. Gas prices might be cheap, but adding car insurance, maintenance, and parking fees to your monthly budget can offset some of the savings from affordable rent.
5. Pro: Cowboy culture and rodeos
Want to embrace your inner cowboy or cowgirl? Oklahoma’s cowboy culture is alive and well. Weekly rodeos, county fairs, and even western-themed dinner shows are part of the charm. Don’t be surprised if your neighbor has a horse, or if Friday night plans involve cheering at a bull-riding competition. This authentic Western spirit is a fun way to connect with the state’s history and community.
Insider scoop: If you’re looking for a true cowboy experience, head to Pawhuska for the Cavalcade Rodeo, the world’s largest amateur rodeo.
6. Con: Summers feel like the surface of the sun
Oklahoma summers are no joke. Temperatures routinely climb into triple digits, and the humidity can make stepping outside feel like walking into a sauna. Renters without good air conditioning are in for a rough ride. If your rental property doesn’t have reliable A/C, you might find yourself camped out at the nearest coffee shop or library just to stay cool.
7. Pro: Plenty of lakes to explore
If you thought Oklahoma was all dry prairie, think again. The state is home to over 200 lakes, many of them man-made and brimming with recreational opportunities. Grand Lake o’ the Cherokees and Lake Eufaula are two standouts, offering boating, fishing, hiking trails, and camping spots, making them perfect weekend getaways. Lake Texoma, located on the southern border, is a favorite for striped bass fishing and water sports.
Insider scoop: For a truly memorable experience, visit Grand Lake during the annual Pelican Festival in Grove. You’ll get to witness the seasonal migration of white pelicans, enjoy carnival rides, and sample local food.
8. Con: High sales taxes that sneak up on you
While Oklahoma’s rent prices are appealing, its sales taxes can eat into your budget. The state’s local sales tax rates are among the highest in the country, standing at 4.50%. The average combined sales tax rate is 8.99% meaning, groceries, dining out, and everyday shopping cost more than you’d expect.
9. Pro: Local festivals you’ll actually want to attend
Oklahoma is full of quirky, community-driven festivals that give you a reason to explore every corner of the state. From the Pawhuska Pioneer Woman Mercantile Festival to OKC’s Festival of the Arts, there’s always something happening. These events often include live music, local food, and artisan vendors, making them perfect for renters looking to get involved in their community.
10. Con: Urban sprawl and traffic jams
Cities like Oklahoma City and Tulsa are growing rapidly, and with that growth comes urban sprawl. This can mean longer commutes, patchy public infrastructure, and a lack of cohesive city planning in newer areas. If you’re renting in the suburbs, prepare for the extra time and hassle of navigating traffic to get to work or the nearest grocery store.
| Pros | Cons |
| Rent for less and keep more | Weather roulette—tornadoes and more |
| Barbecue, fry bread, and endless comfort food | No Subways or streetcars |
| Cowboy culture and rodeos | Summers feel like the surface of the sun |
| Plenty of lakes to explore | High sales taxes that sneak up on you |
| Local festivals you’ll actually want to attend | Urban sprawl and traffic jams |
