Oklahoma, also called the Sooner State, presents a singular mix of small-town attraction and a various expertise for its residents. It’s identified for its wealthy Native American historical past and tradition, with 38 tribal nations and varied historic websites and museums. Oklahoma boasts a wealth of pure magnificence and scenic landscapes, and whereas there are various causes to stay there, it does have its drawbacks. So whether or not you’re looking for properties on the market in Oklahoma Metropolis, an residence in Tulsa, or questioning if Oklahoma is an effective place to stay, learn on for ten execs and cons of dwelling in Oklahoma earlier than calling this state dwelling.
Fascinated about transferring to Oklahoma? Try:Houses on the market in Oklahoma | Flats for hire in Oklahoma | Homes for hire in Oklahoma
Fast Details about Oklahoma
Inhabitants
3,959,353
Median dwelling sale value
$250,800
Common hire in Oklahoma
$1,056
Largest cities in Oklahoma
Oklahoma Metropolis, Tulsa, Norman
1. Professional: BBQ lovers will thrive right here
Oklahoma is legendary for its BBQ tradition, with many BBQ joints and competitions all through the state. The “Oklahoma-style” BBQ, which mixes Texan and Kansas Metropolis-style BBQ is especially famend. It usually options smoked meats reminiscent of beef brisket, pork, and sausage served with a tomato-based sauce. Oklahoma can also be dwelling to many BBQ festivals and occasions, together with the annual Oklahoma Pork and Barbecue Competition, which attracts hundreds of tourists yearly.
2. Con: Some areas have weak infrastructure
The infrastructure in Oklahoma may be described as having some challenges, significantly in budgeting and funding for its infrastructure. Because of this, many infrastructure initiatives, reminiscent of repairs to bridges and roadways, might not be accomplished in a well timed method. This may result in points reminiscent of potholes and uneven surfaces on the roads, which might probably trigger injury to autos.
3. Professional: Oklahoma is thought to be an inexpensive state
The state has a median dwelling sale value of $227,000, which is decrease than the nationwide common of $388,472. The general price of dwelling, together with transportation, healthcare, and different important bills, can also be usually decrease than in different elements of the nation. If you happen to’re looking for properties on the market, try cities like Oklahoma Metropolis, which has a median sale value of $242,000, or Norman, the place the median sale value is $249,000. Together with shopping for, renting is inexpensive all through the state. In bigger cities like Tulsa, a two-bedroom residence averages round $1,053.
4. Con: Vulnerable to pure disasters
Oklahoma is thought for its extreme climate, significantly tornadoes. The state is situated in an space often called Twister Alley, which incorporates elements of Texas, Kansas, and Nebraska. This area experiences many tornadoes because of the mixture of heat, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico and funky, dry air from the Rocky Mountains. Residents additionally expertise extreme thunderstorms, hail, and flash flooding. It’s important for residents to be ready for extreme climate and to create an emergency evacuation plan.
5. Professional: The Sooner State has wealthy historical past
Formed by the numerous teams of people that have referred to as the state dwelling over the centuries, Oklahoma’s cultural historical past is various and sophisticated. The Sooner State grew to become the brand new dwelling to varied indigenous tribes within the nineteenth century, and was additionally a sought-after vacation spot for settlers throughout the late 1800s and early 1900s. You may also discover a thriving African American tradition within the northeastern area with wealthy music, delicacies, and cultural historical past. To study extra concerning the state’s previous, contemplate the Oklahoma Metropolis Nationwide Memorial and Museum or the Nationwide Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.
6. Con: You’ll desire a automotive to get round
Dwelling within the Sooner State can current challenges for these counting on public transportation. There are restricted public transportation choices, with most cities and cities relying totally on bus methods that will have restricted schedules and routes. Moreover, many rural areas in Oklahoma haven’t any public transportation choices, making it tough for residents to entry important companies and assets. This lack of public transportation can create boundaries for these with out entry to a automotive. Nonetheless, lately, Oklahoma has made efforts to enhance public transportation choices, together with increasing bus routes, partnering with ride-sharing corporations, and implementing bike-share packages in some areas.
7. Professional: Oklahoma has a vibrant arts scene
Oklahoma has a thriving arts scene that encompasses a wide range of types and kinds, from conventional Native American and Western artwork to up to date works by native artists. The state is dwelling to quite a few museums, galleries, and cultural facilities, in addition to efficiency areas for theater, dance, and music. A number of the most notable arts establishments in Oklahoma embrace the Oklahoma Metropolis Museum of Artwork and the Philbrook Museum of Artwork in Tulsa. Wealthy traditions of Native American artwork and tradition are deeply rooted and broadly outstanding. The state has a big Native American inhabitants, and the humanities scene displays this various cultural heritage by way of conventional pottery, weaving, beadwork, and different types of Native American artwork.
8. Con: Large metropolis life is missing
Oklahoma has a sparse inhabitants density compared to different states within the U.S., resulting in the absence of main metropolitan areas. The state’s largest metropolis, Oklahoma Metropolis, has a inhabitants of about 700,000, which is comparatively small in comparison with different main cities within the nation like Los Angeles or New York Metropolis. This may result in fewer job alternatives, fewer locations of cultural curiosity, and a scarcity of nightlife in some areas of the state. Dwelling in Oklahoma could be a problem for these searching for an city way of life and extra entry to facilities and assets because of the lack of enormous cities.
9. Professional: There’s a variety of leisure actions
Oklahoma presents its residents wonderful leisure alternatives for any adventurer. The Sooner State is dwelling to a number of state parks, reminiscent of Beavers Bend State Park and Pure Falls State Park, which supply climbing, tenting, fishing, and boating alternatives. Lake Texoma and Grand Lake are in style locations for boating and fishing. There are additionally many golf programs and alternatives for searching, horseback using, and mountain climbing. Regardless of the place you’re within the state, you’ll discover an exercise you get pleasure from.
10. Con: The summers can get scorching and muggy
Oklahoma summers are usually heat to scorching, starting from the excessive 80s to low 90s levels Fahrenheit. The state experiences excessive humidity, making the air really feel oppressive and rising the warmth index. It’s also liable to drought, affecting crops and water assets. You’ll wish to put together your private home for drought to guard your property in the summertime months.
