Article Overview:List of the Pros & Cons of Living in Oklahoma
Thinking about moving to Oklahoma?
Youre in good hands.
My name is Aaron Turner and Ive lived in the Sooner State for 8 years.
However, its worth calling out that the low cost of living goes hand-in-hand with low wages.
The median household income is$61,000, which is lower than the national average.
Affordable Housing Market
If youre moving to Oklahoma to buy a home, youre in luck.
This affordability extends to rentals as well, with average rent prices also well below national figures.
This cost advantage allows for a higher quality of life.
The People Are Very Kind
Southern hospitality is a real thing while living in Oklahoma.
People are quick to greet and offer a hand if you ever need help.
Getting invited to places isnt difficult, even for newcomers, because locals are very friendly.
But, I will add this: Friendliness seems to be loosely tied to religious affiliation.
Its not always the case, but not uncommon either.
Our schools are sorely underfunded, but dont just take my word for it.
Not to mention large class sizes, limited resources and some of thelowest graduation rates in the country.
All told, when it comes to academic performance, Oklahomaranks among the lowest in the US.
This is a huge consideration for anyone thinking about moving to Oklahoma with kids.
Based on my own experience, theres a general sense of dislike towards anyone that considers themselves non-religious.
Not too surprising, considering were in the heart of the Bible Belt.
Its embarrassing to live in a state where 20% of our children go hungry daily.
Racism is Prevalent
Heres a personal beef of mine.
This is more common in smaller towns, where diversity is severely lacking.
Tornadoes Are a Part of Daily Life in Oklahoma
As mentioned earlier, the weather is unpredictable.
Its either great or not, seldom in between.
My biggest advice for anyone considering moving to Oklahoma is to research tornado activity wherever you plan to live.
Oklahoma is in the heart of Tornado Alley, which means tornadoes are par for the course.
But certain parts of the state are more prone to tornadoes than others.
Lack of Outdoor Recreation
Oklahoma never makes headlines in the entertainment department.
Generally speaking, the state is lacking when it comes to outdoor recreation.
Short paved paths are the most common trails Ive come across, and those arent tempting to return to.
At least the state has decent fishing, boating, and camping (Ill give them that).
This is especially true for nature nuts.
Bluntly put, other states have it way better than us when it comes to outdoor recreation.
Theyre dull, brown (dead grass everywhere) and last too long.
Likewise, the winter seasons is marred by strong winds and bitterly cold temperatures.
One other major issue is the unpredictable weather patterns.
Oklahoma often faces rapid temperature changes, leading to icy conditions and winter storms.
We dont have brutal winters like the north, but our unpredictable winter weather is hard to manage.
Thankfully we get ample sunshine, but being outside isnt as enjoyable because of the temperatures and wind.
Sadder still,the infant mortality rate is the 10th highest in the country.
Seems like most restaurants are burger joints or fast food chains.
Good luck finding farm-to-table cuisine or restaurants that take pride in local and seasonal cuisine while living in Oklahoma.
Retiring in Oklahoma FAQ
Not really.
I mean, it depends on what youre after.
Housing, healthcare, and general living expenses are notably affordable.
Marijuana is legal in Oklahoma for medical purposes, but not for recreational use.
The cost of living in Oklahoma is significantly lower than the national average.
While it has a relatively high sales tax rate, the property taxes are quite low.
