21 Reasons People Love Living in Oklahoma City

Whether you’re considering moving to Oklahoma City, or just curious about why it’s such a great place to live, this article lists some of the top reasons people love living here.

Known for being the “biggest small town you’ll ever see,” you’ll soon see why Oklahoma City is the 6th fastest growing large city in the United States.

So let’s take a closer look at what makes this city so special and why so many people enjoy calling it home.

21 Reasons to Live in Oklahoma City

1. Low Cost of Living

Oklahoma City has a relatively low cost of living compared to other major cities in the United States. With a relatively low median home price compared to the national average, houses are more affordable for residents. Additionally, the cost of food and fuel in Oklahoma City are lower than the national average, which also helps keep the overall cost of living down. 

2. Friendly People

Oklahoma City, dubbed the name “The Big Friendly”, is known for its friendly and welcoming community. It’s not uncommon for strangers to strike up a conversation or come to your aid if you find yourself in need. Whether you are looking for a sense of belonging, seeking new friendships or just wanting to connect with like-minded individuals, Oklahoma City’s friendly community can help you find your place in the city.

3. Outdoor Life

Oklahoma City has a variety of parks, lakes, and trails for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. Lake Stanley Draper, Martin Park Nature Center, Will Rogers Gardens, Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge, the Myriad Botanical Gardens, and the Oklahoma River are just a few of the popular outdoor destinations in the area.

4. Efficient Public Transportation

Oklahoma City has an efficient and reliable public transportation system that makes it easy for residents to get around the city. The city’s bus system, EMBARK, provides service to all corners of the city, with a range of routes and schedules to fit any need. Additionally, EMBARK offers a bike-share program, making it easy for commuters to combine biking and public transit to get around town. Oklahoma City is also the hub for the Amtrak Heartland Flyer, which provides passenger rail service to cities throughout Oklahoma and Texas.

5. Low Traffic

Oklahoma City is known for its relatively low traffic compared to many other major cities. Residents can enjoy shorter commute times and less congestion on the roads, which helps reduce stress and improve quality of life. Additionally, the city’s well-planned road network makes it easy to get around, whether you’re driving or taking public transportation.

6. Employment Opportunities

Oklahoma City has an above-average employment rate and a strong and diverse economy with plenty of job opportunities. The city is home to several major employers, including Tinker Air Force Base, the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, and Devon Energy. Additionally, the city has a growing technology sector, with companies like Paycom and Dell Technologies establishing a presence in the area. The low cost of living in Oklahoma City also makes it an attractive destination for businesses, further increasing job opportunities.

7. Low Tax Burden

Living in Oklahoma City can be a great option for those looking for a lower tax burden. Firstly, Oklahoma has no local income tax, which can significantly reduce the tax burden for individuals and families coming here from out of state. Additionally, property taxes in Oklahoma City are lower than in many other cities, which can make owning a home more affordable. This means that residents can save more money on taxes and use that extra money to invest in their families, businesses, and communities. 

8. Entrepreneur Friendly

Oklahoma City has a pro-business climate that makes it a great place for entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses. The city has a lower cost of living compared to many other major US cities, which can help new businesses save on expenses. Additionally, the city’s strong job market and diverse industries provide opportunities for entrepreneurs to network, access funding, and find the talent they need to succeed.

9. Thriving Restaurant Scene

Oklahoma is known for being an ideal place to test the waters of many national restaurant chains. Due to the fact that the state is situated right in the middle of the country, its inhabitants represent a miniature version of the American populace. For those who enjoy food, you’ll undoubtedly get the chance to try some truly creative and alluring restaurants that offer an extensive selection of cuisines to satisfy your taste buds.

10. Relatively Mild Weather

Oklahoma City experiences all four seasons with mild weather and plenty of sunshine throughout the year, making it a great place to enjoy outdoor activities. The city’s relatively low humidity levels provide relief from the sweltering heat that is common in other parts of the region, while its mild winters offer a welcome respite from the cold and snow of other parts of the country. Additionally, the city is situated in Tornado Alley, but the likelihood of a tornado affecting the city is relatively low compared to other parts of the region. (Read more about OKC’s weather here.)

11. Great Shopping

Oklahoma City has a thriving retail sector with an abundance of shopping options. The city is home to several shopping malls, including the upscale Penn Square Mall and the outdoor-themed Quail Springs Mall, both of which feature a mix of high-end and mid-range retailers. Additionally, the city boasts a number of unique boutique shops, specialty stores, and antique markets, providing shoppers with a diverse range of options to explore.

12. Quality Education Options

While the Oklahoma City Public School system doesn’t have the best reputation, there are still quite a few schools in the area with above average ratings and should be considered. Edmond Public Schools, Deer Creek, and Norman are usually a better choice for public education. OKC is also home to more than 120 primary and secondary schools. Here are the top schools in OKC according to GreatSchools.org.  In consideration of higher education, there are several highly rated universities in the area such as the University of Oklahoma, University of Central Oklahoma, Oklahoma City University, and Oklahoma City Community College.

13. Robust Healthcare

Oklahoma City boasts a robust healthcare system that has earned a reputation for excellence. The city is home to several renowned hospitals, such as Integris Baptist Medical Center and St. Anthony Hospital, which provide a broad range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and advanced diagnostics. Additionally, Oklahoma City is a hub for medical research and innovation, with institutions like the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation and the Oklahoma Health Center driving advancements in healthcare technology and treatment. With highly skilled healthcare professionals, cutting-edge facilities, and a commitment to improving the health and wellness of its residents, Oklahoma City is a top destination for quality healthcare.

14. Thriving Nightlife

Oklahoma City has a thriving nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues scattered throughout the city. The Bricktown Entertainment District is a popular destination for nightlife, among other notable areas such as the Uptown 23rd Street District, which is known for its hip bars and music venues, as well as the Paseo Arts District.

15. Specialty Grocery Stores

There are many specialty grocery stores that cater to specific ethnic communities, such as the Super Cao Nguyen Asian Market, which offers a wide range of Asian products, Supermercados Morelos, which specializes in Hispanic foods, or India Bazaar, which has an abundance of food for Indian dishes. Additionally, the city has a growing health food movement, with stores like Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Natural Grocers, offering a range of organic and natural products.

16. Cultural Attractions

Oklahoma City has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with many museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. The city is home to the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, among many others.

17. Healthy Lifestyle

Oklahoma City has a strong commitment to promoting healthy living, which makes it easy for residents to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The city has a range of fitness and wellness centers, including the YMCA, which offer a variety of programs and classes. Additionally, the city has an extensive network of bike trails and walking paths, making it easy for residents to stay active while enjoying the outdoors. Apart from the many grocery stores offering healthy options such as Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Natural Grocers, there’s growing number of healthy restaurants offering locally sourced ingredients and healthy menu options.

18. Strong Community & Volunteerism

Oklahoma City is known for its strong sense of community and culture of volunteerism. From neighborhood associations to non-profit organizations, there are countless opportunities for residents to get involved and make a positive impact in their community. The Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon, held annually in memory of the victims of the 1995 bombing, is a prime example of the city’s community spirit, with thousands of runners and volunteers coming together to support a common cause. With a range of community events and organizations, there are plenty of ways for residents to get involved and give back to their community in Oklahoma City.

19. Centrally Located

Oklahoma’s location at the center of the country serves a multitude of purposes beyond merely testing out restaurants. The state lies at the intersection of I-40 and I-35, providing a direct route to both the east and west coasts. This is particularly convenient for those who frequently travel for business or leisure, as it takes only 3.5 hours to reach Dallas, 2 hours to reach Arkansas, and slightly over 3 hours to arrive at Wichita, Kansas.

20. Safe Neighborhoods

The Oklahoma City metro has a reputation for being a safe place to live, with a lower crime rate than many other similarly sized cities in the US. The city has several neighborhoods that are known for their safety and security, including Edmond, Nichols Hills, and Moore. Additionally, the Police Departments in the OKC metro have a strong presence in the community, working to ensure that residents feel safe and protected at all times.

21. Thriving Sports Culture

Oklahoma City is home to several professional sports teams, including the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder, which consistently ranks among the league’s most exciting teams. For sports lovers, this means the opportunity to catch some of the best basketball, baseball, and soccer games, in the country right in their own backyard. There are also many opportunities for sports, such as in school, intramural opportunities, and leagues by people just wanting to get together and have some fun. 

 

Concluding Thoughts: 

From its low cost of living and affordable housing to its thriving job market and strong sense of community, Oklahoma City truly has something to offer everyone. With a range of recreational activities, cultural attractions, and delicious food options, it’s no wonder that the city continues to grow and attract new residents from all over the country.

Whether you’re a young professional looking to jumpstart your career or a family in search of a safe and friendly community, Oklahoma City is an excellent place to call home.