📖 Guide to Living in Oklahoma
The Ultimate Oklahoma Relocation Guide (2026)
Oklahoma: State Relocation Overview 2026
Oklahoma is rapidly emerging as a premier destination for Americans seeking financial breathing room without sacrificing urban amenities. The state combines a remarkably low cost of living with robust economic growth, making it a magnet for families, professionals, and retirees alike. With a combined population of 1,551,626 across its six major metropolitan hubs, Oklahoma offers the infrastructure of a large state with the community feel of the Midwest.
When analyzing the "best cities in Oklahoma," the data reveals a significant financial advantage. The average median income across these six cities is $70,119, yet the average Cost of Living (COL) Index sits at just 88.3—roughly 11.7% below the national average. This disparity creates a high quality of life for residents. The income range is vast, spanning from $51,571 in Lawton to $98,524 in Edmond, allowing for various budgetary lifestyles. Furthermore, the state boasts low taxes, with a progressive income tax structure, and a temperate climate featuring four distinct seasons.
If you're considering moving to Oklahoma in 2026, you are looking at a market where your dollar stretches significantly further than in coastal states. The housing index averages 100.0, indicating a stabilized market, while rental prices remain historically low compared to the national median. This guide provides a granular, data-driven look at where to plant your roots based on your specific financial and lifestyle needs.
City-by-City Cost of Living Comparison
To understand the nuances of relocation, we must compare the state's largest cities side-by-side. The data highlights distinct economic profiles for each location. While the state average COL is 88.3, individual cities offer unique value propositions based on income, housing costs, and local amenities.
Table 1: Full City Comparison (2026)
| City | Population | Median Income | COL Index | Housing Index | Rent 2BR | Violent Crime (per 100k) | Health Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma City | 702,654 | $67,015 | 91.0 | 78.1 | $1,091 | 748.0 | 78.0 |
| Tulsa | 410,915 | $56,821 | 89.5 | 69.4 | $1,128 | 789.0 | 77.0 |
| Norman | 130,052 | $62,411 | 91.0 | 78.1 | $966 | 345.0 | 80.1 |
| Broken Arrow | 119,666 | $84,374 | 89.5 | 69.4 | $950 | 234.0 | 80.4 |
| Edmond | 98,113 | $98,524 | 91.0 | 78.1 | $966 | 189.0 | 82.6 |
| Lawton | 90,226 | $51,571 | 87.6 | 62.7 | $920 | 458.6 | 74.8 |
| Moore | 63,045 | $76,941 | 91.0 | 78.1 | $966 | 458.6 | 78.9 |
| Midwest City | 58,170 | $57,739 | 91.0 | 78.1 | $966 | 458.6 | 77.3 |
| Enid | 50,821 | $63,472 | 86.1 | 58.2 | $998 | 458.6 | 76.5 |
| Stillwater | 48,818 | $42,015 | 87.5 | 100.6 | $928 | 458.6 | 80.3 |
Analysis: Value vs. Premium
The table reveals a fascinating "income-to-rent" ratio. While the COL Index is uniform across the board at 88.3, income levels vary wildly. Edmond stands out as the premium city, boasting the highest median income of $98,524 and the highest Health Score of 82.6. Conversely, Lawton represents the entry-level market with the lowest median income at $51,571 and the lowest Health Score of 74.8.
However, the "value play" city is Broken Arrow. It combines a high median income of $84,374 (second only to Edmond) with a top-tier Health Score of 80.4. For those seeking a balance of earning power and quality of life without the highest price tag, Broken Arrow is the data-backed winner.
Cost of Living Rankings
Sorting the cities by overall affordability reveals that while the state is generally affordable, there are internal tiers. The following table ranks cities from the most budget-friendly to the most expensive, factoring in the available data.
Table 2: Cost of Living Rankings (Cheapest to Most Expensive)
Note: While the aggregate COL Index is 88.3, we rank based on income potential and implied housing value.
| Rank | City | Overall COL | Housing | Groceries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Enid | 86.1 | 58.2 | 92.2 |
| 2 | Stillwater | 87.5 | 100.6 | 85.8 |
| 3 | Lawton | 87.6 | 62.7 | 92.2 |
| 4 | Tulsa | 89.5 | 69.4 | 92.2 |
| 5 | Broken Arrow | 89.5 | 69.4 | 92.2 |
| 6 | Oklahoma City | 91.0 | 78.1 | 92.2 |
| 7 | Norman | 91.0 | 78.1 | 92.2 |
| 8 | Edmond | 91.0 | 78.1 | 92.2 |
| 9 | Moore | 91.0 | 78.1 | 92.2 |
| 10 | Midwest City | 91.0 | 78.1 | 92.2 |
The #1 Affordable City is Lawton, offering the lowest barrier to entry for housing and living expenses, ideal for those on a fixed income or starting out. Edmond is the #1 Premium City, justified by its status as an affluent suburb with the highest earning potential in the state.
Best Cities by Profile (2026)
Choosing the right city depends on your life stage. We have analyzed the data to match specific profiles with the optimal location.
Table 3: Best Cities by Profile
| Profile | Best City | Key Metric | Why It's the Best Choice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Families with Kids | Broken Arrow | Health Score 80.4 | Offers high safety, excellent health metrics, and high income ($84,374) to support family costs. |
| Young Professionals | Oklahoma City | Population 702,654 | The sheer size provides the most job diversity and nightlife, with a solid income base of $67,015. |
| Remote Workers | Norman | Health Score 80.1 | A college-town vibe with high connectivity and quality of life, earning $62,411. |
| Retirees | Edmond | Health Score 82.6 | Highest health score and highest income ($98,524) suggest superior healthcare access and stability. |
| Budget-Conscious | Lawton | Income $51,571 | Lowest income requirement and entry-level living costs make it the most accessible market. |
Deep Dive by Profile
- For Families: Broken Arrow is the clear winner. With a Health Score of 80.4, it indicates better access to care and community wellness. The high median income of $84,374 provides a buffer for education and extracurriculars.
- For Young Professionals: Oklahoma City is the engine of the state. With a population of 702,654, it offers the most diverse networking and career opportunities. The median income of $67,015 is competitive for the region.
- For Remote Workers: Norman offers a culture distinct from the corporate hubs. With a Health Score of 80.1 and a population of 130,052, it strikes a balance between amenities and a quieter pace.
- For Retirees: Edmond is the gold standard. Its Health Score of 82.6 is the highest in the state, a critical metric for seniors. The median income of $98,524 reflects a community with established financial security.
- For Budget-Conscious: Lawton is the most pragmatic choice. While the income is $51,571, the cost of living is equal to the state average (88.3), meaning expenses are minimized.
Regional Analysis
Oklahoma's geography can be divided into three distinct regions, each catering to a specific lifestyle.
1. The Central Core (Oklahoma City & Norman)
This region is the administrative and cultural heartbeat. Oklahoma City is a sprawling metro that feels like a big city without the crushing density. Norman, just to the south, is a university town that offers a more intellectual and community-focused vibe. This region is best for those who want access to major airports, hospitals, and government jobs.
2. The Green Country (Tulsa & Broken Arrow)
Located in the northeastern part of the state, this region is greener and more rolling in topography. Tulsa offers a revitalized downtown and arts district, while Broken Arrow provides the quintessential high-end suburban experience. This region is ideal for families who value community safety (Health Score 80.4) and cultural amenities.
3. The Western Frontier (Lawton)
Lawton sits in the southwest, near the Wichita Mountains. It is a more rugged, military-influenced economy (home to Fort Sill). This region suits those who prefer a slower pace, lower costs, and access to outdoor recreation over the hustle of the major metros.
The Verdict: Should You Move to Oklahoma?
Pros
- High Purchasing Power: With an average COL of 88.3 and an average income of $70,119, your salary goes roughly 12% further here than the national baseline.
- Diverse Economic Opportunities: From the corporate hubs of OKC to the industrial base of Lawton, the income range of $51,571 to $98,524 shows a wide variety of available jobs.
- Top-Tier Healthcare in Suburbs: The Health Score in cities like Edmond (82.6) and Broken Arrow (80.4) indicates access to quality medical facilities comparable to much more expensive markets.
- Low Density: Even the largest city, OKC (702,654), lacks the traffic congestion and overcrowding of other states' major metros.
Cons
- Income Disparity: The gap between the highest earner (Edmond at $98,524) and the lowest (Lawton at $51,571) is nearly $47,000, indicating uneven economic development across the state.
- Weather Volatility: While the climate is generally temperate, the state is prone to severe weather events, particularly in the spring.
- Infrastructure Gaps: Rural areas surrounding these six cities may lack the high-speed internet infrastructure required for modern remote work, despite the cities themselves being well-connected.
Bottom Line
If you are looking to maximize your income-to-cost ratio and prefer a suburban or mid-sized city lifestyle, Oklahoma is an exceptional choice for relocation in 2026, provided you target the higher-earning hubs like Edmond or Broken Arrow.
FAQs (SEO Optimized)
What is the cheapest city to live in Oklahoma?
Based on the data, Lawton is the most budget-friendly city. It has the lowest median income requirement at $51,571 and generally offers the lowest barrier to entry for housing and rental markets, while maintaining the state average COL of 88.3.
What salary do I need to live comfortably in Oklahoma?
To live comfortably in the state's major metros, a single income earner should target the state average of $70,119. However, in more affordable areas like Lawton or Tulsa, a salary of $55,000 to $60,000 provides a very comfortable standard of living given the low COL index of 88.3.
What is the safest city in Oklahoma?
While crime data varies, Broken Arrow and Edmond consistently show the highest Health Scores (80.4 and 82.6 respectively) and highest median incomes ($84,374 and $98,524), which statistically correlates with lower crime rates and higher community investment.
Is Oklahoma a good state for families?
Yes. Cities like Broken Arrow (Population 119,666) offer a perfect blend of high income ($84,374), excellent health metrics (80.4), and affordability. The lower cost of living allows families to afford larger homes and better education resources.
What are the fastest growing cities in Oklahoma?
Based on the latest population data, Oklahoma City remains the growth engine with a population of 702,654, followed by Tulsa at 410,915. However, suburbs like Edmond (Pop 98,113) are seeing rapid expansion due to high incomes and quality of life scores.