5 Reasons Why Living in Oklahoma May Be Right for You

 

Oklahoma is a South-Central state known for its low cost of living, plentiful career opportunities, diverse culture, and abundance of activities. If you're considering making the move to Oklahoma, here are five reasons why it may be the perfect fit. Oklahomans are renowned for their southern hospitality and make it easy to feel right at home when you move here. Additionally, they are deeply religious people who take great joy in helping those in need.

1. Low Cost of Living

When it comes to living costs in Oklahoma, two cities stand out: Muskogee and Ponca City. These communities offer some of the lowest housing, grocery, and healthcare prices in the state. Oklahoma boasts an affordable cost ofliving that is 12% below the national average, making it a prime option for those searching to relocate. Housing and utility prices are 26% cheaper than their counterparts nationwide, while healthcare is 4% less expensive. Some of Oklahoma's other top budget-friendly towns to live in include Enid, Chickasha, and Moore. Each has an affordable cost of living as well as a welcoming local community.

Enid, Oklahoma is known as the "Wheat Capital of Oklahoma" and it's an ideal location for work and plays with plenty of entertainment and cultural events to experience. Altus, Oklahoma is an affordable place to live in the mountains. Here, residents take pleasure in their heritage and are proud of being part of the city's rich culture. For those looking for a smaller town experience life at its finest in Altus. If you're in search of a new home, these people are incredibly kind and welcoming - making this the ideal place to begin your search!

Oklahoma may not be the cheapest place to live, but it sure is one of the best! With such low living costs, residents here can afford to spend more on leisure activities and experiences. Before moving to Oklahoma, it's essential that you consider your housing, transportation, and medical costs. Doing this will help keep living costs down and give you enough money for a comfortable transition into your new home.

2. Stable Economy

Oklahoma's economy is one of the strongest in America. It has experienced steady growth and an overall increase in jobs over the past decade. Oklahoma boasts one of the nation's largest oil and gas industries, accounting for nearly 40% of state GDP. Furthermore, it produces significant amounts of health care services, higher education institutions, as well as trade products. Although Oklahoma's energy sector has seen some recent declines, the state's economy remains strong with employment increasing across several key sectors. Furthermore, Oklahoma's unemployment rate remains low, which could help the state weather any economic challenges that come its way in the months and years ahead.

The state's fiscal outlook remains positive, as revenue growth continues to exceed national levels due to the strength of the state's public sector. Spending is also increasing rapidly as funds were restored to key budget areas that had been cut during 2015-16's recession and teacher and state employee salaries were raised accordingly. In addition, the state has taken an aggressive approach to increasing its statutory reserve funding considering repeated energy-related downturns that have negatively affected its economy and fiscal health. This includes raising reserves through bond issuance, which will better equip them against future shocks. Over the last two years, Oklahoma has taken several initiatives to improve its economic situation. These measures include cutting taxes and expanding school choice. Furthermore, they have worked hard to restrain government growth and build up record savings accounts in state government, while enacting COVID restrictions that are less stringent than many other states. These actions have reduced reliance on federal aid while increasing economic stability within the state.

3. Easy Commute

Living in Oklahoma offers many advantages, one of which is an easy commute to work. Other states often require hours just to get there or run errands. This adds up to stress and may lead to higher auto insurance premiums as a result. Oklahoma boasts significantly shorter commute times than the national average, so residents can save time driving and instead focus on their careers.

Oklahoma's growing economy also helps keep living costs down. Housing, groceries, utilities, and other essential expenses in Oklahoma tend to be cheaper than in many of America's larger metropolitan areas. Many people opt to relocate to Oklahoma because of its great amenities for families. Before deciding, ensure your new city offers everything you need and more! Are you searching for a secure, affordable place to raise your kids or an exciting nightlife scene? Oklahoma has everything. As an expanding metropolis, it has plenty of activities for families like sports and entertainment as well as cultural attractions that appeal to all ages.

4. Diverse Culture

Oklahoma boasts a diverse population, providing opportunities for people from all backgrounds to come together and celebrate each other's cultures. From professional sports and music to art and heritage, Oklahoma hosts numerous cultural events that foster awareness and understanding among those from different backgrounds. NativeAmerican culture is an integral part of Oklahoma's history, and the state's many museums and heritage centers showcase its vibrant traditions. Discover Oklahoma's Native heritage, explore tribal regalia, and take part in authentic celebrations and powwows with our free guide to Oklahoma's Indian Country for more information about where you can explore this vibrant community.

Oklahoma is renowned for its vibrant artistic community, boasting artists from around the globe displaying their work in museums throughout Oklahoma. Places like Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa and Philbrook Museum of Art in Oklahoma City feature an extensive range of displays celebrating both Native American art and European masterworks alike. Another notable cultural landmark in Oklahoma City, previously known as "Little Saigon," has been revitalized with new restaurants and shops. Nowadays, this neighborhood enjoys a bustling community and an excellent food scene that rivals anything found this side of the Pacific. Oklahoma is known for its diverse populations and, of course, music and entertainment. From Woody Guthrie and Chet Baker to Patti Page and Ben Johnson - Oklahoma boasts some truly legendary musicians and singers. Notable among them: Gene Autry - "singing cowboy". Oklahoma culture encompasses both traditional and modern sports, such as baseball, football, and rodeo. Despite its relatively underrated national sports reputation, Oklahoma has produced several renowned athletes of national stature; Jim Thorpe - former Olympic star and member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame - and former NBA star Shaquille O'Neal are two examples.

5. Great Weather

Oklahoma enjoys a mild climate, with only moderate amounts of heat and humidity throughout the year. This ideal atmosphere makes for great outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, skiing, and snowboarding. Summers in Oklahoma can be hot and humid, with average temperatures typically in the high 90s Fahrenheit. However, parts of western Oklahoma and the Panhandle experience more extreme summers due to higher temperatures and increased humidity than other parts of the state. Temperatures drop sharply in the fall, often reaching into the 50s F. Visitors can enjoy pumpkin patches, hayrides, football games, and Halloween fun without needing to don heavy clothing.

Springtime in Oklahoma is an ideal time to visit, as the weather tends to be dryer and milder than in summer. Additionally, native redbuds, dogwoods, as well as plentiful wildflowers bloom during this time. Although spring is an ideal time to explore Oklahoma, caution should be exercised during stormy periods when strong thunderstorms can be common. This is especially true in central Oklahoma where tornadoes are known to strike frequently and cause extensive property damage. Winterin Oklahoma can be cold and snowy, with overnight lows sometimes dropping below freezing. But that's also when visitors can enjoy many seasonal outdoor events like the Oklahoma State Fair or Poteau Balloon Fest.