5-minute read
As you research, explore, and consider moving to an Oklahoma community, here’s an overview of what you can expect when living in The Sooner State.
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Climate & Geography
Entertainment & Recreation
Cost of Living
Healthcare
Looking for a place where comfort meets convenience, and every day feels like a carefree adventure? Oklahoma's master-planned communities offer just that, and so much more!
With a charm that goes beyond its friendly faces, there are many benefits to calling Oklahoma home. Extremely affordable, your savings and retirement dollars stretch further, allowing you to own that dream single-family home in a community brimming with amenities. Imagine sparkling pools, state-of-the-art fitness centers, and buzzing community centers—all right outside your doorstep.
In Oklahoma's master-planned communities, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere where shared experiences and friendly faces foster a true sense of belonging. Social clubs, events, and activities abound, creating the perfect space to connect with like-minded neighbors and build lasting friendships.
Oklahoma's beauty is as diverse as its residents. From glistening lakeside paradises to rolling hills and bustling cityscapes, there's a perfect backdrop for every lifestyle. Think breathtaking sunrises over a calm lake, or enjoying leisurely walks on nature trails teeming with wildlife. The Sooner State’s mild climate makes it an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, perfect for golfing, exploring, or simply soaking up the sunshine.
Oklahoma Climate & Geography
Oklahoma offers a bit of everything—from dramatic landscapes to diverse climates. It's a state where you can find the perfect backdrop for community living that blends relaxation with outdoor adventures.
Regions & Landscapes
Land of Plains and Hills: Envision vast rolling plains in the west, giving way to the dramatic Wichita Mountains in the southwest. In the east, the landscape transforms into forested hills and the Ozark Plateau. This variety creates stunning scenery no matter where you roam in Oklahoma.
Abundant Lakes: Oklahoma boasts over 200 lakes, making it great for water enthusiasts. From the massive Lake Texoma to the serene beauty of Grand Lake o' the Cherokees, there's a watery escape for everyone.
Natural Wonders: Oklahoma is home to a variety of ecosystems, from the lush grasslands of the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve to the ancient cypress swamps of the southeastern region. Explore natural wonders like the Gloss Mountains with their otherworldly rock formations or discover the rich history of the canyons and mesas in the panhandle.
Weather
Various Weather Patterns: Oklahoma experiences a mashup of weather patterns, with a humid subtropical climate in the east transitioning to semi-arid in the west. Think hot, humid summers and mild, but occasionally snowy winters in the east, while the west sees similar hot summers but drier with cooler winters.
Four Distinct Seasons: Spring brings unpredictable weather with beautiful wildflowers and the possibility of tornadoes. Summers are hot and muggy, perfect for cooling off in Oklahoma's many lakes. Fall offers a colorful display of foliage and comfortable temperatures. Winters are mild with occasional cold snaps and maybe a snow flurry.
Oklahoma Entertainment & Recreation
Hit the Trails: Oklahoma features a range of hiking and biking trails. Residents enjoy the scenic trails of Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge or explore the beauty of the Gloss Mountains. For a unique cycling adventure, try the Tulsa River Parks trails.
Lake Life: Go swimming, boating, fishing, or jet skiing at Grand Lake o' the Cherokees, the state's largest lake. If you prefer something calmer, try kayaking or canoeing on the serene waters of Lake Eufaula.
Cave Adventures: Explore Oklahoma's hidden treasures by spelunking in the many caves scattered around the state. Admire the natural rock formations at Alabaster Caverns State Park or discover the mysterious depths of Will Rogers State Park's Twin Caves.
Dive into History: Visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, step back in time at the Philbrook Museum of Art, home to an impressive collection of art from around the world, or explore the fascinating exhibits at the Gilcrease Museum, showcasing American art.
Catch a Show: For a dose of live entertainment, head to Bricktown in Oklahoma City. This vibrant entertainment district offers a variety of options, from catching a concert or a play to enjoying a night out at a lively bar or club.
Casino Excitement: The WinStar World Casino in Thackerville is the country’s largest casino, offering endless gaming options, while Cherokee Casino Ramona offers a more intimate setting.
Festival Fun: Experience the rich Native American culture at the Tulsa Indian Art Festival, groove to the music at the Oklahoma City Festival of the Arts, or take a trip back in time at the Pawnee Bill's Pawnee Bill Ranch Rodeo.
Oklahoma Cost of Living
One of the most enticing aspects of moving to Oklahoma is the state’s affordability.
- Overall: The cost of living in Oklahoma is 12% lower than the national average.
- Housing: 28% lower than the national average.
- Taxes:
- Income tax: Graduated individual income tax, ranging from 0.25% to 4.75%
- Property tax: .85% of homes assessed value
- Sales tax: 4.5% (average state and local combined 8.98%)
- No tax on Social Security benefits
Oklahoma Healthcare
Oklahoma's healthcare system offers a mix of urban medical centers and rural healthcare providers. Access to care can vary depending on location. Major metropolitan areas like Oklahoma City and Tulsa boast a wider range of specialists and facilities. Rural areas may have limited specialists, but rely on a network of community hospitals and clinics to provide essential services.
Oklahoma’s top medical centers include:
OU Health: Located in Oklahoma City, OU Health is the state's only academic medical center. It comprises the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, The Children's Hospital at OU Health, and various specialty centers, offering a comprehensive range of advanced medical care.
Saint Francis Health System: This statewide integrated health system has locations across Oklahoma, providing a range of services from primary care to complex surgeries.
Integris Health: Another major healthcare system in Oklahoma, Integris offers a network of hospitals and clinics across the state, with a focus on advanced treatments and technologies.