How Does Oklahoma Rank? A Realistic Look at Life in the Sooner State

When people think about moving to Oklahoma—especially Green Country—they often ask, “What’s it really like to live there?” Sure, the cost of living is low, but what about schools? Safety? Friendliness? Here's a look at how Oklahoma stacks up in categories that matter to everyday people.

Friendliness & Community

If there's one thing Oklahoma is proud of, it's hospitality. While friendliness is tough to measure with hard numbers, multiple national surveys and anecdotal feedback suggest that Oklahomans are among the most neighborly people you'll meet.

Small-town manners meet big-city courtesy in places like Tulsa, Broken Arrow, and Claremore. Whether you're talking to your barista, your neighbor, or someone in line at the DMV, you're likely to get a smile and maybe even a chat.

👉 Bottom Line: If you value kindness and casual conversation, you'll feel right at home.

Education Rankings

Here’s where the story gets more complicated. Oklahoma typically ranks in the bottom 10 states for public education in national assessments. Teacher pay, classroom funding, and academic outcomes have long been challenges.

However, it’s not all gloom:

• Several districts in Green Country, such as Bixby, Jenks, and Owasso, have built strong reputations for academic achievement.

• Charter and magnet school options are expanding in urban areas like Tulsa.

• Vocational and trade programs—especially in agriculture, energy, and aviation—are solid and well-supported.

👉 Bottom Line: Public education in Oklahoma varies widely by district. Do your homework before settling down, and consider areas with strong local support for schools.

Crime & Safety

Crime rates in Oklahoma are higher than the national average, especially in property crime. Violent crime is a concern in specific urban neighborhoods, but rural areas and many suburbs remain very safe.

In Green Country, cities like Broken Arrow and Bixby are frequently ranked among the safest in the state. Tulsa has higher crime rates, but it also has strong community policing efforts and ongoing revitalization in formerly high-crime areas.

👉 Bottom Line: Crime exists, but it’s very localized. Check neighborhood-level data—not just city-wide averages—before choosing where to live.

Cost of Living

This is where Oklahoma shines. The cost of living is one of the lowest in the country. Housing, groceries, fuel, and utilities are all more affordable than the national average. This is one of the main reasons people from higher-cost states (especially Texas and California) are looking eastward.

• Median home price in Oklahoma: ~$180,000

• Median home price in Green Country: $150,000–$225,000, depending on the town

• Property taxes are also low—typically less than 1% annually

👉 Bottom Line: Your dollar stretches further here than in most places in the U.S.

Jobs & Economy

Oklahoma has a strong blue-collar workforce, with jobs in energy, construction, agriculture, and manufacturing. Unemployment rates are typically on par with national averages, and Tulsa is seeing growth in tech, medical, and logistics sectors.

One thing to note: wages in Oklahoma can be lower than in other states. However, the low cost of living helps balance that out.

👉 Bottom Line: It’s a great place for skilled trades, logistics, and anyone working remotely.

Natural Disasters & Weather

Tornadoes, yes. But not every week. Green Country is in Tornado Alley, and the state averages around 60–70 tornadoes per year. However, most don’t hit populated areas. Severe weather is most common in spring, but modern warning systems and storm shelters help mitigate the risk.

Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are generally mild.

👉 Bottom Line: Weather is unpredictable, but most residents adapt easily, and preparedness is key.

Health & Wellness

Oklahoma ranks low in many health metrics:

• High obesity and smoking rates

• Limited rural access to medical specialists

• Lower-than-average life expectancy

But urban centers are improving. Tulsa and Oklahoma City have major hospital systems, increasing investment in mental health services, and growing health-conscious communities.

👉 Bottom Line: Health rankings are improving slowly, but still trail most other states.

Final Thoughts: Is Oklahoma Right for You?

Oklahoma is not perfect—but it’s real, resilient, and affordable. It’s a state where neighbors still wave, your mortgage doesn’t own you, and a weekend trip to the lake might be five minutes from your house.

For many, especially those coming from overpopulated or overpriced metro areas, that tradeoff is more than worth it.

📌 Thinking about a move? If you’re looking at homes in Northeast Oklahoma, feel free to reach out for an inspection or neighborhood recommendation. I live and work in the area—and I’d be happy to help you make an informed decision.