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Last updated Aug 1, 2025

An Ultimate Guide to Moving to Oklahoma

Oklahoma, known as the Sooner State, offers a unique blend of rich history, diverse landscapes, and a strong sense of community. Our ultimate guide to moving to Oklahoma is designed to provide you with all the essential information needed for a successful relocation. Oklahoma's geography ranges from vast plains to rolling hills and forested regions. This guide covers the major cities like Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Norman, each offering its own lifestyle and amenities. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant arts scene in Tulsa, the booming economy of Oklahoma City, or the college town vibe of Norman, this guide helps you navigate the best places to live in the state. Economically, Oklahoma is driven by industries like energy, agriculture, and aerospace. The guide provides insights into job opportunities, cost of living, and housing markets across the state. You'll also find information on Oklahoma's education system, including its universities and public schools, ensuring you can make informed decisions for your family's future. Culturally, Oklahoma is a melting pot of Native American heritage, cowboy traditions, and modern urban life. The guide highlights the state's recreational offerings, from exploring the Wichita Mountains to enjoying the lakes and rivers, making it easy to embrace the Oklahoma lifestyle.

Guide for moving to Oklahoma

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Oklahoma: Where Affordability Meets Heartland Charm - Your Guide to Moving

Oklahoma, the "Sooner State," beckons with its friendly communities, diverse landscapes, and a blend of urban vibrancy and rural charm. From the bustling energy of Oklahoma City to the serene beauty of the Wichita Mountains, Oklahoma offers a spectrum of experiences for those seeking a slower pace, a strong sense of community, and a touch of Western hospitality. Whether drawn by its affordability, thriving energy sector, or rich cultural heritage, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the essential information you need to make an informed decision about moving to Oklahoma in 2025.

Reasons to Consider Moving to Oklahoma:

  • Low Cost of Living: Oklahoma boasts a significantly lower cost of living compared to the national average, with affordable housing, lower taxes, and a lower overall cost of goods and services.
  • Thriving Energy Sector: Oklahoma's oil and gas industry offers diverse job opportunities in energy production, engineering, and related fields.
  • Diverse Landscapes: Beyond the prairies, Oklahoma boasts stunning landscapes, including mountains, forests, lakes, and canyons, providing opportunities for hiking, camping, and outdoor activities.
  • Strong Community Spirit: Oklahomans are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, fostering a strong sense of community, especially in smaller towns and rural areas.
  • Four Distinct Seasons: Experience all four seasons, with mild winters, hot summers, and vibrant fall foliage.

Things to Consider Before Moving:

  • Limited Public Transportation: Public transportation options are primarily concentrated in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, leaving smaller towns and rural areas reliant on personal vehicles.
  • Severe Weather: Oklahoma experiences occasional tornadoes, hailstorms, and severe thunderstorms. Be prepared for potential weather emergencies.
  • Educational System: While improvements are underway, the public education system faces some challenges. Research school options for families.
  • Social and Political Climate: Oklahoma leans politically conservative and may not align with everyone's social and political preferences.
  • Limited Cultural Diversity: Compared to larger metropolitan areas, Oklahoma's cultural scene may be less diverse.

Planning Your Move:

  • Choose Your Location: Oklahoma offers diverse communities with varying demographics, lifestyles, and costs of living. Researching specific locations like Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman, or charming small towns like Stillwater will help you find the perfect fit for your needs and preferences.
  • Secure Employment (if applicable): Securing a job before moving can significantly ease the financial transition and provide stability. Researching job availability in your field is crucial, with energy, healthcare, and manufacturing offering promising opportunities.
  • Find Housing: Housing availability and costs vary depending on location. Urban areas tend to be more expensive, while smaller towns offer more affordable options. Consider renting initially to get acquainted with the area before committing to a purchase.
  • Budgeting and Finances: Carefully plan your finances to account for potential variations in cost of living across different regions of the state. Research housing costs, transportation expenses, and the lower overall cost of living in your budget calculations.
  • Prepare for the Weather: Oklahoma experiences distinct seasons, with hot, humid summers, mild winters with potential snowfall, and occasional severe weather events. Invest in appropriate clothing, weather preparedness measures, and be aware of safety protocols for potential weather emergencies.

Additional Resources:

Making the Most of Your Move:

  • Embrace the Community Spirit: Connect with your neighbors, join local clubs or organizations, and participate in community events to build a sense of belonging.
  • Explore the Outdoors: Hike through the Wichita Mountains, visit the scenic lakes and rivers, or camp under the vast Oklahoma sky. Enjoy the abundance of outdoor activities the state offers.
  • Experience the Cultural Scene: Immerse yourself in Native American history, visit art museums in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, or enjoy music festivals and rodeos celebrating the state's Western heritage.
  • Savor the Local Cuisine: Indulge in Oklahoma's unique culinary scene, from barbecue and fried onion burgers to authentic Native American dishes.

Moving to Oklahoma can be a rewarding experience. By carefully planning, understanding the unique characteristics of the state, and embracing its friendly spirit and diverse offerings, you can find yourself thriving in this welcoming and affordable environment. Remember, Oklahoma offers a distinct way of life, where affordability, strong communities, and a touch of Western charm blend seamlessly to create a truly unique experience.

WHAT'S INTERESTING HERE

Benefits of moving to the An Ultimate Guide to Moving to Oklahoma

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Benefits

Benefits of moving to the An Ultimate Guide to Moving to Oklahoma

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Low-cost housing

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Low cost of living

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Native American Heritage

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Friendly people

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Entertainment

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The great outdoors

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Big small towns

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COST OF LIVING IN THE STATE

Is An Ultimate Guide to Moving to Oklahoma a good place to live?

Oklahoma has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 0.5% to 5%. The state sales tax is 4.5%, with additional local sales taxes imposed in some areas. Property taxes in Oklahoma are among the lowest in the country, making homeownership more affordable.

Oklahoma has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 0.5% to 5%. The state sales tax is 4.5%, with addi...Read more

The cost of living in Oklahoma is generally lower than the national average. Housing costs, including renting or buying a home, are typically affordable, particularly in suburban and rural areas. Utilities, transportation, and everyday goods are reasonably priced. Healthcare costs in Oklahoma are generally in line with the national average.

Oklahoma offers a favorable cost of living, allowing residents to stretch their budget further and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. However, it's important to consider factors such as location, lifestyle choices, and personal spending habits when evaluating the overall cost of living in the state.

The cost of living in Oklahoma is generally lower than the national average. Housing costs, including renting or buying ...Read more

Oklahoma's housing market offers a variety of options, from charming historic homes to modern suburban developments. Home prices in Oklahoma are generally affordable compared to many other states, with some areas experiencing higher demand and increased competition. The market is stable, and there are opportunities for both buyers and renters to find suitable housing.Oklahoma's housing market has seen steady growth in recent years, driven by factors such as a strong economy, job opportunities, and the state's overall affordability.

Oklahoma's housing market offers a variety of options, from charming historic homes to modern suburban developments. Hom...Read more

TOP SPOTS IN THE STATE

Who would be suited to move to An Ultimate Guide to Moving to Oklahoma?

Rich Native American Heritage icon SVL

Rich Native American Heritage

Immerse yourself in Oklahoma's Native American culture and history, with numerous cultural centers, museums, and heritage sites that showcase the state's indigenous heritage.

Breathtaking Landscapes icon SVL

Breathtaking Landscapes

Explore Oklahoma's diverse landscapes, from rolling plains and majestic mountains to stunning lakes and picturesque rivers, offering outdoor enthusiasts endless opportunities for adventure and recreation.

Friendly Communities icon SVL

Friendly Communities

Experience the warm hospitality and tight-knit communities of Oklahoma, where neighbors become like family and where the spirit of togetherness is celebrated.

Vibrant Arts Scene icon SVL

Vibrant Arts Scene

Delight in Oklahoma's vibrant arts scene, with world-class museums, galleries, theaters, and music festivals that showcase the state's artistic talent and cultural diversity.

Affordable Living icon SVL

Affordable Living

Enjoy a lower cost of living in Oklahoma, with affordable housing, reasonable utility costs, and everyday expenses that allow you to stretch your budget and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.

Spirit of the West icon SVL

Spirit of the West

Embrace the cowboy heritage and Western spirit that runs deep in Oklahoma, with rodeos, Western festivals, and a rich tradition of Western arts, crafts, and music.

Rich Native American Heritage icon SVL

Rich Native American Heritage

Immerse yourself in Oklahoma's Native American culture and history, with numerous cultural centers, museums, and heritage sites that showcase the state's indigenous heritage.

Breathtaking Landscapes icon SVL

Breathtaking Landscapes

Explore Oklahoma's diverse landscapes, from rolling plains and majestic mountains to stunning lakes and picturesque rivers, offering outdoor enthusiasts endless opportunities for adventure and recreation.

Friendly Communities icon SVL

Friendly Communities

Experience the warm hospitality and tight-knit communities of Oklahoma, where neighbors become like family and where the spirit of togetherness is celebrated.

Vibrant Arts Scene icon SVL

Vibrant Arts Scene

Delight in Oklahoma's vibrant arts scene, with world-class museums, galleries, theaters, and music festivals that showcase the state's artistic talent and cultural diversity.

Affordable Living icon SVL

Affordable Living

Enjoy a lower cost of living in Oklahoma, with affordable housing, reasonable utility costs, and everyday expenses that allow you to stretch your budget and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.

Spirit of the West icon SVL

Spirit of the West

Embrace the cowboy heritage and Western spirit that runs deep in Oklahoma, with rodeos, Western festivals, and a rich tradition of Western arts, crafts, and music.

WHERE TO WORK

Largest employers in An Ultimate Guide to Moving to Oklahoma

Hobby Lobby

Hilti

Kappa Psi

QuikTrip

EEPI HQ

Vanguard

Metals

Imperial

Patriot Guard

Love’s Travel

University of Oklahoma

Accord HR

Vanguard USA

Oklahoma University

Route 66

Route 66

Roadside attractions range from the historical, such as Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton and National Route 66 and Transportation Museum in Elk City, to the odd, like the Blue Whale of Catoosa or Golden Driller in Tulsa.

Oklahoma City Zoo

Oklahoma City Zoo

Ambling pathways take visitors through many ecosystems at the Oklahoma City Zoo, from African plains to tropical jungles.

Philbrook Museum of Art

Philbrook Museum of Art

Collections at the Philbrook Museum of Art include works from Africa, Asia, and Europe in a variety of media, as well as the work of American artists and craftspeople.

Where to go on vacation

The best attractions in the An Ultimate Guide to Moving to Oklahoma

Are you interested in outdoor activities, but your spouse is more excited about history and culture? There’s something for both of you in Oklahoma!

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Route 66

Route 66

Roadside attractions range from the historical, such as Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton and National Route 66 and Transportation Museum in Elk City, to the odd, like the Blue Whale of Catoosa or Golden Driller in Tulsa.

Oklahoma City Zoo

Oklahoma City Zoo

Ambling pathways take visitors through many ecosystems at the Oklahoma City Zoo, from African plains to tropical jungles.

Philbrook Museum of Art

Philbrook Museum of Art

Collections at the Philbrook Museum of Art include works from Africa, Asia, and Europe in a variety of media, as well as the work of American artists and craftspeople.

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Does Star Van Lines handle moves to both urban and rural parts of Oklahoma?

Yes! Whether you're moving to metropolitan areas like Oklahoma City or Tulsa, or settling into smaller towns like Ada or Woodward, Star Van Lines offers full-service moving support statewide—including long-distance, local, and specialty moves.

How does Star Van Lines assist with moves related to Tinker Air Force Base or other military relocations in Oklahoma?

We proudly support military families with timely, secure, and regulation-compliant moving services. We understand the importance of flexibility and confidentiality for PCS moves and are experienced with military housing transitions near bases like Tinker AFB, Fort Sill, and Vance AFB.

Can you help move during Oklahoma's storm season or extreme weather?

Absolutely. We closely monitor weather forecasts and adapt accordingly. Our team takes all precautions to protect your items during storms or extreme heat, ensuring your move stays on track.

Do you offer specialized services for farm equipment or large property relocations in Oklahoma?

Yes. If you're relocating to or from farmland or a property with large tools, barns, or machinery, we offer custom solutions to help move heavy, bulky, or irregularly shaped equipment safely and efficiently.

What types of packing services does Star Van Lines provide in Oklahoma?

We offer full-service packing and unpacking options, partial packing, and custom crating for delicate or high-value items. Whether you're moving a four-bedroom home or a studio apartment, we ensure your belongings are protected during the journey.

Do you offer local moving services within Oklahoma?

Yes. Our local movers can help you relocate within the same city or county—ideal for moves across Oklahoma City, Norman, Broken Arrow, Edmond, or any nearby area.

Is storage available in Oklahoma if I need temporary space for my belongings?

Definitely. We offer both short-term and long-term storage in secure, climate-controlled facilities. This is perfect if your new home isn’t ready yet, or if you're downsizing.

How do I begin planning my move to Oklahoma with Star Van Lines?

It’s easy—just contact us via phone or fill out our online form for a free quote. We’ll guide you through the entire process, from planning and packing to delivery and setup in your new Oklahoma home.