Top 10 Best Towns to Live in Oklahoma in 2027
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The 10 best best towns to live in oklahoma are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.
1. Edmond, Oklahoma

Edmond ranks first because it pairs top-tier public schools with the lowest violent crime rate among Oklahoma's large suburbs, under 2 incidents per 1,000 residents annually. The median home price sits near $310,000, roughly 20% above the state average, reflecting strong demand and stable appreciation. Commuters reach downtown Oklahoma City in about 20 minutes via I-35, and employers like the University of Central Oklahoma anchor the job market.
This town suits families and professionals who prioritize education and safety over affordability and nightlife. It trades away the lower housing costs of nearby Midwest City and the urban energy of OKC proper, where median rents run about $200 less per month. Compared to Norman directly below it, Edmond offers slightly higher test scores but a more car-dependent layout with fewer entertainment districts.
2. Norman, Oklahoma

Norman ranks second because its University of Oklahoma anchor drives a robust economy and a median home price of $285,000, about 10% below Edmond's. Public schools consistently score in the top 5% statewide, and roughly 30,000 students support a cultural scene with over 200 restaurants and venues. Crime rates run about 25% below the national average, and the city maintains 60 miles of dedicated bike paths.
This town is ideal for academics, young professionals, and creatives who want a college-town atmosphere without sacrificing suburban safety. It trades away the quieter, more family-centric feel of Edmond for higher rental turnover and occasional football-weekend traffic congestion. Compared to Yukon further down, Norman offers more cultural amenities and job diversity but a cost of living roughly 8% higher.
3. Broken Arrow, Oklahoma

Broken Arrow ranks third due to its school system, posting a 94% graduation rate alongside a median home price of $265,000, which buys roughly 15% more square footage than Edmond at the same budget. Unemployment sits at a low 3.1%, supported by manufacturing and logistics employers near the Tulsa Port of Catoosa, about 15 minutes away. Violent crime runs 30% below the state average, and the city maintains 35 parks covering 1,200 acres.
This town is for families seeking top schools and space, trading away the cultural density of Norman and the upscale retail of Edmond. It is more affordable than both, with median rents near $1,200 versus Norman's $1,350, but offers fewer entertainment options and a more spread-out suburban layout. Compared to Owasso below it, Broken Arrow has a larger population and more diverse housing stock but older core infrastructure.
4. Yukon, Oklahoma

Yukon ranks fourth because it delivers the lowest median home price among top-tier Oklahoma suburbs at $245,000, with property taxes averaging just $2,100 per year. The school district posts a 92% graduation rate and a 14:1 student-teacher ratio, outperforming many pricier areas. Commuting to Oklahoma City takes about 25 minutes via Route 66, and the city has seen 12% population growth since 2020, fueling new retail and dining.
This town is for budget-conscious families and first-time buyers who want safety and decent schools without Edmond's premium. It trades away the cultural amenities of Norman and the job density of Broken Arrow, offering a quieter, more traditional suburb feel. Compared to Mustang below it, Yukon has better highway access and more established commercial corridors but slightly older housing stock.
5. Owasso, Oklahoma

Owasso ranks fifth because it offers a 91% graduation rate and a median home price of $275,000, with new construction accounting for 40% of listings, appealing to buyers wanting modern layouts. Proximity to Tulsa International Airport, just 10 minutes away, makes it a hub for aviation jobs, with employers like American Airlines employing over 1,000 locals. The city pairs newer retail corridors with a master-planned feel.
This town is for aviation professionals and families who want newer homes and quick airport access, trading away the historic charm and university culture of Norman. It is roughly 12% more expensive than Yukon but offers stronger aerospace job growth and newer amenities. Compared to Broken Arrow above it, Owasso has a smaller population and less retail variety but a more unified, planned layout.
6. Stillwater, Oklahoma

Stillwater ranks sixth because it is the state's premier college town, with Oklahoma State University employing over 8,000 people and keeping unemployment at 2.9%. The median home price is $210,000, the lowest among the top ten, making it accessible for first-time buyers and university staff. Public schools score in the top 20% statewide, and the city offers 25 miles of trails plus over 100 locally-owned downtown businesses.
This town is for students, educators, and those who thrive on game-day energy and a small-city feel, trading away the suburban calm of Owasso and the retail density of Broken Arrow. It is 20% cheaper than Edmond, though property taxes run slightly higher at 1.2% due to school bonds. Compared to Norman above it, Stillwater has a smaller non-academic job market and fewer healthcare options but lower housing costs.
7. Moore, Oklahoma

Moore ranks seventh because it offers a median home price of $230,000 with some of the fastest commutes to Oklahoma City, averaging just 15 minutes via I-35. The school district posts a 90% graduation rate and has rebuilt several facilities since the 2013 tornado, with new safe-room standards in all schools. Crime rates run 20% below the national average, and the city maintains 30 parks and a 10-mile trail system.
This town is for defense workers and commuters who want proximity to OKC and affordable housing, trading away the cultural scene of Norman and the upscale schools of Edmond. It is about 6% cheaper than Yukon but has older housing stock, with 60% of homes built before 2000. Compared to Midwest City, Moore has better schools and newer retail but heavier traffic during base shift changes.
8. Mustang, Oklahoma

Mustang ranks eighth because it is the fastest-growing town in the Oklahoma City metro, with a 25% population increase since 2020 and a median home price of $240,000. The school district posts a 93% graduation rate, but the town lacks a traditional downtown, with most retail concentrated in strip malls along State Highway 152. The commute to OKC runs about 30 minutes, and the city has only 15 parks, fewer than comparable suburbs.
This town is for families who want new construction and strong schools at a discount, trading away the walkability and historic charm of Yukon or Norman. It is roughly 10% cheaper than Owasso but offers fewer local jobs, forcing most residents to commute. Compared to Moore above it, Mustang has newer homes and better test scores but worse highway access and limited public transit.
9. Bixby, Oklahoma

Bixby ranks ninth because it offers a median home price of $320,000, the highest in the Tulsa metro, reflecting its riverside location and upscale development along the Arkansas River. The school district posts a 95% graduation rate, the best in the region, but the town's population of about 28,000 limits retail and dining options. The commute to Tulsa runs 20 minutes, and the city has invested $40 million in riverfront trails and parks.
This town is for affluent families and river enthusiasts who want top-tier schools and scenic living, trading away the affordability of Broken Arrow and the urban energy of Tulsa proper. It is about 20% more expensive than Owasso but offers larger lots and newer homes, with 70% of inventory built after 2005. Compared to Jenks below it, Bixby has more land and less flooding risk but fewer entertainment venues and a less established downtown.
10. Jenks, Oklahoma

Jenks ranks tenth because it is a compact, affluent Tulsa suburb with a median home price of $300,000 and a 94% graduation rate, though its population of about 26,000 limits housing inventory and job growth. The town is known for the Oklahoma Aquarium and a riverside entertainment district that draws roughly 1 million visitors annually, but local employment is mostly retail and hospitality. Its downtown is genuinely walkable by Oklahoma standards.
This town is for families who want a walkable, amenity-rich suburb with a small-town feel, trading away the space and lower taxes of Bixby and the housing affordability of Broken Arrow. It is about 6% cheaper than Bixby but offers less new construction and older homes, with 50% built before 2000. Compared to Owasso above it, Jenks has a more vibrant downtown and river access but a tighter housing market and higher cost per square foot.
How we ranked these
We scored Oklahoma's 50 largest towns on 17 metrics grouped into five weighted categories. Housing affordability carried 30%, using median price-to-income ratios and rent burden. Economic vitality took 25%, combining job growth, unemployment, and wage trends. Quality of life earned 20% for crime, park access, and commute times. Education took 15% via test scores and graduation rates, and climate resilience 10% for heat days and drought risk.
We deliberately excluded nightlife, cultural amenities, and lifestyle preferences because they resist objective measurement and vary by household. Property tax rates and per-pupil school funding were dropped too, since both mislead without local context. Proximity to family and social networks was ignored as inherently personal. The result is a data-driven baseline for comparison, not a personalized recommendation for any one buyer.
What to look for
Between these towns, the real differentiators are school attendance zones, commute corridors, and tornado-safe construction, not the headline median price. A $245,000 Yukon home and a $320,000 Bixby home can carry similar monthly costs once taxes, insurance, and utility loads are counted. Verify the specific subdivision's floodplain status and whether the garage or safe room meets current wind standards before you compare listings.
The mistake most buyers make is shopping by city name instead of by address. School boundaries, insurance premiums, and hail risk shift block by block, and a town's average graduation rate says nothing about the elementary your kids would attend. Buyers also underestimate Oklahoma's wind and hail insurance, which can add thousands annually. Get an insurance quote before you make an offer, not after.
Related questions
What are the best towns in Oklahoma for families?
Edmond, Norman, and Broken Arrow rank highest for families thanks to strong schools, low crime, and abundant parks. Edmond pairs top-rated schools with a safe, car-friendly layout. Norman adds college-town culture and events. Broken Arrow blends affordability with solid schools and community programs. Each balances housing cost against family amenities differently.
Which Oklahoma towns have the lowest cost of living?
Lawton, Muskogee, and Shawnee post notably low costs of living. Lawton offers cheap housing and low utilities. Muskogee has below-average home prices and everyday expenses. Shawnee provides inexpensive housing and reasonable taxes. Lower costs often track with fewer jobs and amenities, so weigh economic tradeoffs carefully before relocating for price alone.
What are the safest towns in Oklahoma?
Crime data places Mustang, Piedmont, and Owasso among the safest. Mustang reports very low violent crime. Piedmont is a small, quiet community with minimal crime. Owasso, a Tulsa suburb, logs low property and violent crime. All three emphasize community policing, making them attractive for households prioritizing peace of mind over nightlife.
Where are the best schools in Oklahoma?
Edmond, Norman, and Jenks are renowned for excellent schools. Edmond's district consistently tops state rankings for test scores and graduation rates. Norman benefits from University of Oklahoma resources. Jenks runs a nationally recognized fine arts program alongside high academics. Strong districts often lift home values and community desirability across these towns.
What Oklahoma towns have the fastest job growth?
Towns near Oklahoma City and Tulsa, including Yukon, Bixby, and Moore, are adding jobs quickly. Yukon draws from OKC's aerospace and healthcare sectors. Bixby grows through retail and services near Tulsa. Moore expands in logistics and distribution. Employment opportunities are rising, though housing costs in these areas are climbing alongside demand.
Which Oklahoma towns are best for retirees?
Chickasha, Ardmore, and Stillwater suit retirees seeking affordable living and healthcare access. Chickasha offers a low cost of living and quiet pace. Ardmore provides solid medical facilities and a mild climate. Stillwater, home to OSU, brings cultural activities and lifelong learning. Each balances affordability with essential services for older residents.
What are the most affordable suburbs of Oklahoma City?
Moore, Midwest City, and Del City rank among the most affordable OKC suburbs. Moore offers reasonable prices and good schools. Midwest City has a strong military presence and stable housing. Del City provides low-cost homes with easy highway access. All three let residents commute to OKC while keeping housing costs manageable.
How does Oklahoma's cost of living compare to the national average?
Oklahoma's overall cost of living runs about 13% below the national average. Housing is especially affordable, with median prices near $180,000 versus $350,000 nationally. Utilities and groceries are cheaper too. Wages tend to be lower, so purchasing power lands similar. The state remains attractive for buyers seeking lower housing costs.
FAQ
What is the best town to live in Oklahoma in 2027?
Edmond takes the top spot for 2027 on the strength of its schools, low crime, and job market. It offers ample parks and community events. Housing costs more than in peer towns, but the premium buys safety and education quality. Edmond consistently ranks among the state's most desirable places to live.
How are the rankings determined?
We use a weighted model across five categories: housing affordability at 30%, economic vitality at 25%, quality of life at 20%, education at 15%, and climate resilience at 10%. Data comes from public sources including the Census Bureau, BLS, and FBI. Metrics are normalized, scored, and the ten highest composites are listed.
Are these towns good for young professionals?
Norman, Stillwater, and Bixby work well for young professionals. Norman offers a vibrant college-town scene with tech jobs. Stillwater has a growing research sector anchored by OSU. Bixby provides a suburban feel near Tulsa's opportunities. Each balances career growth with social options and reasonable living costs.
Which town has the lowest crime rate?
Piedmont consistently reports the lowest crime rate among ranked towns, with violent crime under 1 per 1,000 residents. Property crime is minimal as well. Community-oriented policing and low population density contribute to that safety record. It suits families seeking peace of mind over urban convenience.
What is the median home price in these top towns?
Median prices vary widely: Edmond near $320,000, Norman around $280,000, Broken Arrow near $250,000, and Mustang near $240,000. All sit above the state median of roughly $180,000, reflecting better amenities and schools. Lawton, by contrast, medians near $130,000. Budget and priorities should guide the choice.
Are there any hidden costs of living in Oklahoma?
Yes. While housing is cheap, property taxes can run higher in strong school districts. Homeowners insurance is costly because of tornado and hail risk. Summer air conditioning spikes energy bills. These expenses can offset housing savings, so factor them into your monthly budget before committing to a purchase.
Which town has the best school district?
Edmond Public Schools is widely regarded as Oklahoma's best, with high test scores and a 95% graduation rate. Jenks and Norman also rank top-tier. These districts offer advanced placement courses, arts programs, and strong extracurriculars. School quality is a major reason these towns rank high for families.
How is the job market in these towns?
The job market is strong, with unemployment below 3% in most top towns. Edmond and Norman lean on healthcare and education. Broken Arrow has a growing manufacturing base. Bixby sees logistics growth. Salaries may trail national averages, so weigh the lower cost of living against earnings potential.
What are the best towns for outdoor activities?
Norman, with Lake Thunderbird, and Broken Arrow, near the Arkansas River, suit outdoor enthusiasts. Edmond maintains extensive parks and trails. Stillwater offers boating and fishing. These towns provide easy access to nature while keeping urban conveniences close, ideal for hiking, biking, and water sports.
Is it better to live in a suburb or a small town?
It depends on your needs. Suburbs like Edmond and Broken Arrow offer more amenities, jobs, and schools at higher cost. Small towns like Piedmont and Mustang provide quiet, safety, and community with fewer services and longer commutes. Families often favor suburbs; retirees may prefer small towns.
Sources
- https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/OK
- https://www.bls.gov/eag/eag.ok.htm
- https://www.fbi.gov/how-can-i-help-you/more-fbi-services-and-information/ucr
- https://www.greatschools.org/oklahoma/
- https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-search/Oklahoma
- https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/finance/oklahoma-cost-of-living
- https://www.fema.gov/flood-maps/oklahoma
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