Why Oklahoma is the Ideal Place for Families: 10 Reasons to Move Now

If you’re considering a move with your kids to a more affordable, family-friendly place, look no further than Oklahoma! As someone who has lived and raised three kids here, I can confidently say that Oklahoma is a fantastic state for young families. The blend of affordability, great education options, beautiful landscapes, and relaxed lifestyle makes it the perfect spot to settle down. Below are the top 10 reasons why Oklahoma should be on your radar if you have little ones.

1. Affordable Cost of Living

The cost of living in Oklahoma is one of the biggest draws for families looking to relocate. For those currently living in cities like Denver, Austin, or LA, it can be tough to find affordable housing, but in Oklahoma, it’s a whole different story. On average, the cost of a home is around $185,000, and even in more metropolitan areas like Oklahoma City and Tulsa, you can find a beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bath home for about $250,000 to $275,000. Not only is housing affordable, but utilities, groceries, and healthcare also come in under the national average, making it a great choice for families who want to stretch their dollars further.

2. Great Education Options

Oklahoma offers a variety of educational choices for families, including public, private, and homeschooling options. Public schools in Oklahoma are well-rated with a B+ average, and there are plenty of opportunities to choose schools based on your family’s needs. Private schooling can be expensive, but Oklahoma has made strides to make it more affordable by offering a $7,500 tax credit for parents who enroll their children in private schools. If you’re looking for a more flexible option, homeschooling is popular here and is supported by a very relaxed regulatory environment, making it easy for parents who want a more hands-on approach to their children’s education.

3. Beautiful Outdoor Activities

Oklahoma may not have the most towering mountain ranges, but it has a surprising amount of beauty to offer. From the rolling hills of East Oklahoma, nestled in the Ozark Mountains, to the stunning deserts and lakes across the state, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities. Oklahoma boasts the most man-made lakes in the U.S., making it a paradise for water lovers. If hiking is your thing, you’ll love the state parks, including the picturesque Turner Falls, which offers a scenic getaway for families looking to explore.

4. No Traffic Jams

One of the most underrated aspects of living in Oklahoma is the lack of traffic. In larger cities like Los Angeles or New York, getting stuck in traffic with kids can make even the shortest trips feel like an eternity. In Oklahoma, there are fewer people, which means less congestion and smoother commutes. For parents with little ones, this can be a huge benefit, as it makes everyday tasks like grocery shopping or school drop-offs a breeze.

5. Cultural Attractions and Sports Enthusiasm

Oklahoma is rich in culture and history, with plenty of museums, art centers, and Native American heritage sites to explore. Whether you’re interested in ballet, opera, or Broadway performances, Oklahoma City and Tulsa both offer world-class performing arts centers. Plus, Oklahomans are passionate about sports. College football is huge here, but there’s also an exciting mix of professional and minor league teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA), the Tulsa Drillers (baseball), and the Tulsa Oilers (hockey and football). If you’re a sports-loving family, Oklahoma offers a great environment to get involved.

6. Southern Hospitality

Oklahoma is known for its friendly people and southern hospitality. The state’s residents are known for being warm, welcoming, and always willing to lend a helping hand. This is particularly nice for families new to the state who might be looking to build a community. Whether it’s a neighbor holding the door open for you or a random stranger inviting you to church, you’ll feel the friendly vibes from day one.

7. Central Location for Easy Travel

If you have family scattered across the country, Oklahoma’s central location is ideal. Whether you need to travel east, west, north, or south, Oklahoma offers convenient access to major airports in Oklahoma City and Tulsa. The state’s location makes it easy to visit family members on both coasts or even in neighboring states, ensuring you can maintain those important connections no matter where your loved ones live.

8. Opportunities for a Homesteading Lifestyle

For families interested in a more self-sufficient lifestyle, Oklahoma is the perfect state. With a significant amount of rural land available, families can find properties with acreage to grow their own food, raise animals, or build a home from scratch. If you’ve ever dreamt of a tiny house or a homestead, Oklahoma offers plenty of opportunities for that kind of lifestyle, without the restrictions you may find in other states.

9. Growing Economy and Future Investment

Oklahoma’s economy is booming, and it’s growing steadily. The greater Tulsa area has seen significant population growth, and Oklahoma City is also experiencing expansion, thanks in part to the influx of businesses moving into the state. With a strong economy, manufacturing plants popping up, and increasing job opportunities, Oklahoma is a great place to make an investment in your children’s future. The affordable housing market combined with the growing job market makes it an attractive place for families looking to plant roots.

10. A Future-Oriented State for Young Families

Finally, Oklahoma is a forward-looking state that continues to grow, offering plenty of opportunities for young families. Whether you’re moving for better schools, affordable housing, or a better quality of life, Oklahoma is a state that offers the kind of environment where families can thrive. The growing population and economy mean that the future looks bright, with plenty of possibilities for your children.

Conclusion

From affordable housing and excellent schools to a friendly, relaxed lifestyle, Oklahoma is an ideal place to raise kids. If you’re looking for a change and want a state that supports young families with great opportunities, then look no further than Oklahoma. Whether you’re drawn to the state’s natural beauty, strong community, or thriving economy, Oklahoma offers the perfect environment for your family to grow and prosper. So, if you’re thinking about making the move to Tulsa, feel free to reach out to me for help with your transition.