Relocating to Oklahoma City: The Essential Guide

The capital of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, has experienced sustained growth and development over the last 15 years. According to the Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Oklahoma City is currently the 20^th largest city in the U.S. and the 42^nd largest metropolitan area. There are several factors that contribute to its growing appeal, such as affordable cost of living, strong job market, and family-friendly environment. In this guide, we'll explore what to expect when moving to Oklahoma City for housing, healthcare, quality of life, and more.

OKC Housing

The influx of people moving to Oklahoma City has driven up housing demand, leading to an average of two offers per home. According to Redfin, home prices were up 3.1% compared to last year (August 2023), selling for a median price of $274K. Still, Oklahoma City residents spend 29% less than the national average on housing costs.

Where are most of the people who are moving to Oklahoma City coming from? The top three metros people are moving from are Los Angeles, Dallas, and Miami, albeit only 0.30% of homebuyers nationally searched to move to Oklahoma City.

Suppose you are moving to the Oklahoma City area and are a first-time home buyer, or haven't decided whether you want to rent or own. In that case, F&M Bank has experienced mortgage lenders who can help guide you through the mortgage programs available and what your costs may be.

Neighborhoods

Oklahoma City offers a various range of neighborhoods and districts, each with its unique character and appeal.

Urban Neighborhoods: Oklahoma City has invested in revitalizing its downtown area and other neighborhoods, transforming them into attractive places to live and work. Housing options downtown are plentiful, with luxury apartments, cottages, condominiums, and historic homes, many of which are within walking distance of breweries and the OKC Streetcar line.

Historic Neighborhoods: Most of the historic districts in Oklahoma City surround downtown with some homes that were built before statehood. Within the historic neighborhoods are eight named neighborhoods with homes overseen by the Historic Preservation Commission.

Suburban Neighborhoods: If you like suburban living, Oklahoma City offers many cities within its boundaries with home styles ranging from' 30s-platted mansions to newly built homes. There is easy access to the interstates, low commute times, and abundant retail and restaurants.

Pastoral Neighborhoods: Oklahoma City proper offers pastoral neighborhoods with a small-town feel and easy and quick access to downtown. The neighborhoods have lots of wide open spaces of land and large homes.

Quality of Life

Oklahoma City has seen significant improvements in its quality of life in recent years. With a robust economy, affordable cost of living, and excellent access to education and healthcare, the city offers a strong foundation for residents. Its vibrant cultural scene, abundant recreational opportunities, and growing sense of community further enhance the overall quality of life in Oklahoma City.

Education

From public schools to private institutions and universities, Oklahoma City has educational opportunities for students of all ages. Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS) is the largest school district in the state, educating approximately 34,000 students. The district includes 33 neighborhood elementary schools, 12 middle schools, eight high schools, four alternative schools, and six charter school campuses. According to U.S. News & World Report's 2020 analysis, one of the top high schools in the nation is Classen School of Advanced Studies, part of OKCPS. Visit the Oklahoma City Chamber for a complete list of public schools. The city also has various private schools offering quality education as an alternative to public schools.

Greater Oklahoma City offers a wide range of higher education, including 15 public and private colleges, including two universities, the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University.

Healthcare

Residents in Oklahoma City have access to a dynamic healthcare system featuring a range of hospitals, clinics, and medical specialists. The city offers a comprehensive network of healthcare providers, from world-class academic medical centers to community-based clinics. Whether it's routine check-ups or specialized treatments, Oklahoma City's healthcare system is equipped to meet the needs of its residents.

The city's commitment to healthcare is evident in its growing number of medical research institutions and advancements in medical technology. This focus on innovation has contributed to improved patient outcomes and access to cutting-edge treatments.

Culture

Oklahoma City's diverse culture reflects its history, heritage, and contemporary influences. From its Native American roots to its Western heritage, the city offers a vibrant mix of traditional values and artistic expression. With a thriving arts scene, a varied culinary landscape, and a strong sense of community, Oklahoma City's culture is a testament to its unique identity.

Check out this list of museums, art galleries, and other Oklahoma City attractions.

• First Americans Museum
• Festival of Arts
• Paseo Arts Festival
• Oklahoma City Museum of Art
• Civic Center Music Hall
• DeadCENTER Film Festival
• Red Earth Gallery and Museum
• National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
• Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum
• Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum
• Stockyards City
• Sam Noble Museum of Natural History
• Myriad Botanical Gardens

• Scissortail Park
• Oklahoma City Zoo
• Science Museum Oklahoma
• Frontier City
• Boathouse District
• American Banjo Museum
• Museum of Osteology
• Orr Family Farms

Sports

Oklahoma City has professional sports teams, the Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA) and the Oklahoma City Energy FC (USL Championship), attracting passionate fans and contributing to the city's growing reputation as a sports destination.

In addition to professional sports, Oklahoma City is also home to two prominent college sports programs: the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Oklahoma State University Cowboys. These teams compete in the Big 12 Conference and have a strong rivalry, attracting large crowds to their games. The city's love for sports extends beyond professional and collegiate levels, with amateur sports and various recreational sports opportunities.

Utilities

Oklahoma City's utilities include electricity, natural gas, water, sewer, and waste collection. The city's primary utility provider is Oklahoma Gas and Electric (OG&E), which offers electricity and natural gas services. In addition to municipal services, residents and businesses can also choose from various cable and internet providers operating in the area.

Jobs

There are job opportunities across various industries, from energy and aerospace to healthcare and technology, in Oklahoma City. The growing economy and focus on innovation have contributed to increased job growth in recent years. With a strong presence in sectors such as education, government, and retail, Oklahoma City provides a variety of options for individuals seeking employment.

F&M Bank in Oklahoma City offers a full range of banking services.

As a family-owned bank that goes back three generations, we are dedicated to serving the communities where we belong. If you're new or want to move to Oklahoma City, we can help you purchase a home or start a business. We also offer a complete selection of personal checking and savings accounts as well as other services to meet your everyday financial needs. Contact us today or visit one of our convenient locations.