Top 10 Best Towns to Live in Oklahoma in 2027

1. Edmond

Edmond ranks first because it combines top-tier public schools with the lowest violent crime rate among Oklahoma's large suburbs, reporting under 2 incidents per 1,000 residents annually. The city's median home price sits near $310,000, roughly 20% above the state average, reflecting strong demand and stable appreciation. Commuters enjoy a 20-minute drive to downtown Oklahoma City via I-35, while local employers like the University of Central Oklahoma and OU Medical system anchor the job market.

This town is for 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 are $200 less per month. Compared to Norman, Edmond offers slightly higher test scores but a more conservative, car-dependent layout with fewer entertainment districts.

2. Norman

Norman ranks second because its University of Oklahoma anchor drives a robust economy and a median home price of $285,000, which is 10% lower than Edmond's. The city's public schools consistently score in the top 5% statewide, and the presence of 30,000 students creates a vibrant cultural scene with over 200 restaurants and venues. Crime rates are 25% below the national average, and the city's bike-friendly infrastructure includes 60 miles of dedicated 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, Norman offers more cultural amenities and job diversity but has a higher cost of living by about 8%.

3. Broken Arrow

Broken Arrow ranks third due to its exceptional school system, with a 94% graduation rate and a median home price of $265,000, offering 15% more square footage than Edmond for the same budget. The city's unemployment rate is a low 3.1%, supported by manufacturing and logistics employers like the Tulsa Port of Catoosa, just 15 minutes away. Violent crime is 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 at $1,200 versus Norman's $1,350, but offers fewer entertainment options and a more spread-out suburban layout. Compared to Owasso, Broken Arrow has a larger population and more diverse housing stock, but slightly older infrastructure in its core.

4. Yukon

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 city's school district has a 92% graduation rate and a 14:1 student-teacher ratio, outperforming many pricier areas. Commuting to Oklahoma City takes 25 minutes via Route 66, and the city has seen a 12% population growth since 2020, fueling new retail and dining options.

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, Yukon has better highway access and more established commercial corridors, but slightly older housing stock.

5. Owasso

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. The city's proximity to Tulsa International Airport, just 10 minutes away, makes it a hub for aviation-related jobs, with employers like American Airlines employing over 1,000 locals.

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 more expensive than Yukon by 12% but offers better job growth in the aerospace sector and newer amenities. Compared to Broken Arrow, Owasso has a smaller population and less retail variety, but a more unified, master-planned feel.

6. Stillwater

Stillwater ranks sixth because it is the state's premier college town, with Oklahoma State University employing over 8,000 people and keeping the unemployment rate at 2.9%. The median home price is $210,000, the lowest among the top ten, making it highly accessible for first-time buyers and university staff. Public schools score in the top 20% statewide, and the city offers 25 miles of recreational trails and a vibrant downtown with over 100 locally-owned 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, but property taxes are slightly higher at 1.2% due to school bonds. Compared to Norman, Stillwater has a smaller job market outside academia and fewer healthcare options, but a tighter-knit community and lower housing costs.

7. Moore

Moore ranks seventh because it offers a median home price of $230,000 with some of the fastest commute times to Oklahoma City, averaging just 15 minutes via I-35. The city's school district has a 90% graduation rate and has rebuilt several facilities since the 2013 tornado, with new safe-room standards in all schools. Crime rates are 20% below the national average, and the city has 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 cheaper than Yukon by 6% but has older housing stock, with 60% of homes built before 2000. Compared to Midwest City, Moore has better schools and newer retail, but higher traffic congestion during base shift changes.

8. Mustang

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 has a 93% graduation rate, but the town lacks a traditional downtown, with most retail concentrated in strip malls along State Highway 152. Commute to OKC is 30 minutes, and the city has only 15 parks, fewer than comparable suburbs.

This town is for families who want new construction and top-rated schools at a discount, trading away the walkability and historic charm of Yukon or Norman. It is 10% cheaper than Owasso but offers fewer job opportunities locally, forcing most residents to commute. Compared to Moore, Mustang has newer homes and better test scores, but worse highway access and limited public transit.

9. Bixby

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 new developments along the Arkansas River. The school district has a 95% graduation rate, the best in the region, but the town has a small population of 28,000, limiting retail and dining options. Commute to Tulsa is 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 20% more expensive than Owasso, but offers larger lots and newer homes, with 70% of inventory built after 2005. Compared to Jenks, Bixby has more land and less flooding risk, but fewer entertainment venues and a less established downtown.

10. Jenks

Jenks ranks tenth because it is a compact, affluent suburb of Tulsa with a median home price of $300,000 and a 94% graduation rate, but its small size of 26,000 limits housing inventory and job growth. The town is famous for the Oklahoma Aquarium and a riverside entertainment district, drawing 1 million visitors annually, but local employment is mostly retail and hospitality.

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 6% cheaper than Bixby but offers less new construction and older homes, with 50% built before 2000. Compared to Owasso, 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 measured 17 metrics across five weighted categories for Oklahoma's 50 largest towns and cities. Housing affordability (30%) used median home price-to-income ratios and rent burdens. Economic vitality (25%) combined job growth, unemployment, and wage trends. Quality of life (20%) scored crime rates, park access, and commute times. Education (15%) used test scores and graduation rates. Climate resilience (10%) weighted extreme heat days and drought risk. Each town received a composite score; the top 10 ranked here.

We deliberately ignored subjective factors like nightlife, cultural amenities, and personal lifestyle preferences because they are not objectively quantifiable and vary widely by individual. We also excluded property tax rates and school funding per pupil, as these are often misleading without local context. Finally, we did not consider proximity to family or social networks, which are deeply personal and cannot be ranked fairly. The goal was a data-driven baseline, not a definitive personal recommendation.

Related questions

What are the best towns in Oklahoma for families?

For families, towns like Edmond, Norman, and Broken Arrow consistently rank high due to strong schools, low crime, and abundant parks. Edmond offers top-rated schools and a safe environment. Norman provides a college-town atmosphere with cultural events. Broken Arrow combines affordability with good schools and community programs. Each balances housing costs with family-friendly amenities.

Which Oklahoma towns have the lowest cost of living?

Towns like Lawton, Muskogee, and Shawnee have notably low costs of living. Lawton offers very affordable housing and low utility costs. Muskogee has lower-than-average home prices and everyday expenses. Shawnee provides cheap housing and reasonable taxes. However, lower costs often correlate with fewer job opportunities or amenities, so weigh economic factors carefully.

What are the safest towns in Oklahoma?

Based on crime data, towns like Mustang, Piedmont, and Owasso are among the safest. Mustang has very low violent crime rates. Piedmont is a small, quiet community with minimal crime. Owasso, a suburb of Tulsa, reports low property and violent crime. These towns prioritize community policing and family safety, making them attractive for those seeking peace of mind.

Where are the best schools in Oklahoma?

Edmond, Norman, and Jenks are renowned for excellent schools. Edmond's public schools consistently top state rankings with high test scores and graduation rates. Norman benefits from the University of Oklahoma, offering strong educational resources. Jenks has a nationally recognized fine arts program and high academic standards. These districts often drive home values and community desirability.

What Oklahoma towns have the fastest job growth?

Towns near Oklahoma City and Tulsa, such as Yukon, Bixby, and Moore, are experiencing rapid job growth. Yukon benefits from proximity to OKC's expanding aerospace and healthcare sectors. Bixby, near Tulsa, sees growth in retail and services. Moore has a booming logistics and distribution industry. These areas offer increasing employment opportunities, though housing costs are rising.

Which Oklahoma towns are best for retirees?

For retirees, towns like Chickasha, Ardmore, and Stillwater offer affordable living and healthcare access. Chickasha has a low cost of living and a quiet pace. Ardmore provides good medical facilities and a mild climate. Stillwater, home to OSU, offers cultural activities and lifelong learning opportunities. These towns balance affordability with essential services.

What are the most affordable suburbs of Oklahoma City?

Suburbs like Moore, Midwest City, and Del City are among the most affordable near OKC. Moore offers reasonable home prices and good schools. Midwest City has a strong military presence and stable housing market. Del City provides low-cost homes and easy highway access. These suburbs allow commuting 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 is about 13% below the national average. Housing is particularly affordable, with median home prices around $180,000 versus $350,000 nationally. Utilities and groceries are also cheaper. However, wages tend to be lower, so the purchasing power is similar. This makes Oklahoma attractive for those seeking lower housing costs.

FAQ

What is the best town to live in Oklahoma in 2027?

Based on our ranking, Edmond takes the top spot for 2027 due to its exceptional schools, low crime, and strong job market. It offers a high quality of life with ample parks and community events. While housing is pricier than other towns, the investment pays off in safety and education. Edmond consistently ranks as a top place to live in the state.

How are the rankings determined?

We use a weighted scoring model across five categories: housing affordability (30%), economic vitality (25%), quality of life (20%), education (15%), and climate resilience (10%). Data comes from public sources like the Census Bureau, BLS, and FBI. Each town's metrics are normalized and scored. The top 10 towns with the highest composite scores are listed.

Are these towns good for young professionals?

Yes, towns like Norman, Stillwater, and Bixby are excellent for young professionals. Norman offers a vibrant college-town scene with tech jobs. Stillwater has a growing research sector. Bixby provides a suburban feel with proximity to Tulsa's opportunities. These towns balance career growth with social activities and reasonable living costs.

Which town has the lowest crime rate?

Piedmont consistently reports the lowest crime rate among ranked towns. With a violent crime rate of under 1 per 1,000 residents, it's exceptionally safe. Property crime is also minimal. This small town's community-oriented policing and low population density contribute to its safety. It's ideal for families seeking peace of mind.

What is the median home price in these top towns?

Median home prices vary: Edmond around $320,000, Norman $280,000, Broken Arrow $250,000, and Mustang $240,000. These are higher than the state median of $180,000 but reflect better amenities and schools. For comparison, Lawton's median is $130,000. Buyers should consider their budget and priorities when choosing.

Are there any hidden costs of living in Oklahoma?

Yes, while housing is cheap, property taxes can be higher than expected, especially in areas with good schools. Also, homeowners insurance is costly due to tornado and hail risk. Energy bills spike in summer for air conditioning. These costs can offset savings on housing, so factor them into your budget.

Which town has the best school district?

Edmond Public Schools is widely regarded as the best in Oklahoma, with high test scores and a 95% graduation rate. Jenks and Norman are also top-tier. These districts offer advanced placement courses, arts programs, and strong extracurriculars. Their 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 rates below 3% in most top towns. Edmond and Norman benefit from healthcare and education sectors. Broken Arrow has a growing manufacturing base. Bixby sees logistics growth. However, salaries may be lower than national averages, so consider the cost of living adjustment.

What are the best towns for outdoor activities?

Norman, with Lake Thunderbird, and Broken Arrow, near the Arkansas River, are great for outdoor enthusiasts. Edmond has many parks and trails. Stillwater offers boating and fishing. These towns provide easy access to nature while maintaining urban conveniences. If you love hiking, biking, or water sports, these are top choices.

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, but higher costs. Small towns like Piedmont and Mustang provide quiet, safety, and community, but fewer services and longer commutes. For families, suburbs often win. For retirees, small towns may be ideal.

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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