Oklahoma exists as one of the lower 48 states in America. While much of the state is rural, several cities offer residents an excellent quality of life. These top 10 best cities to live in Oklahoma vary in population size and industries, but each has unique charms that make it desirable for residents. Read our list highlighting the top 10 best cities to live in Oklahoma to see if your favorite made the cut!
10. Duncan
Duncan is a city in southern Oklahoma with a population of about 23,000. It is home to a friendly community and various businesses and restaurants. Duncan is also the birthplace of country music singer-songwriter Toby Keith. Visitors to Duncan can enjoy the city’s many parks and golf courses, as well as its museums and art galleries. There are a lot of dining and shopping options available in the city. Whether searching for a quiet place to relax or an exciting place to explore, Duncan is sure to have something for everyone.
9. Bartlesville
Bartlesville is a city located in northeastern Oklahoma, just south of the Kansas border. It is perhaps best known for its oil history, as it was once the headquarters of Phillips Petroleum Company. However, Bartlesville is also home to many other businesses and attractions. The city is close to Tulsa, making it an excellent place for those who want its perks without actually living in the city. There are several parks and recreational areas in Bartlesville, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants. Whether you are seeking an exciting place to live or just somewhere to visit for a day, Bartlesville is definitely worth checking out.
8. Muskogee
Muskogee is a city in eastern Oklahoma with a scenic riverfront location. The city is home to the Five Civilized Tribes Museum, which chronicles the history of the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, and Seminole tribes. Other points of interest include the honorably named War Memorial Park and the castle-like structure of the Castle Revolving Restaurant. Muskogee is also known for its green spaces, such as Honor Heights Park with its miles of hiking trails and Riggs Park with its picturesque fountain. Families can also enjoy a day of fishing or picnicking at one of Muskogee’s many lakes. With its rich history and a plethora of outdoor activities, Muskogee provides something for everyone to enjoy.
7. Enid
Enid is a city in northwestern Oklahoma with a small-town charm vibe. It was founded in 1893 and is the county seat of Garfield County. One interesting fact about this Oklahoma city is that it was named after a character in the novel “The Trumpet Major” by Thomas Hardy. Since Enid has just over 50,000 people, it is home to various businesses and industries. The city also has many cultural and historical attractions, parks, and recreational areas that appeal to people of all ages. Therefore, Enid is an excellent place to live, work, and raise a family.
6. Stillwater
Stillwater is a city in central Oklahoma and home to Oklahoma State University. The university is the state’s largest public institution of higher education and has a strong agricultural program. Stillwater is also home to many high-tech businesses, making it a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. The city’s vibrant downtown offers many shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Its many parks and recreational facilities provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether you are hoping to find a place to explore, study, or work, Stillwater has something to offer for all.
5. Edmond
Edmond is a city located in Oklahoma, United States; it is in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area in the state. Edmond has become one of the fastest-growing cities in the state and has had a population boom in recent years. Let’s begin with the history:
The city was founded in 1887 by two Santa Fe Railroad surveyors who named it after Edmond Burdick, a cattleman who owned land near the site. The town was platted out and snowballed after its founding, reaching a population of 1,000 by 1907. The railroad ran through town and brought with it new residents and businesses. In 1909, oil was discovered nearby, and the city’s population increased even more as drilling rigs and workers arrived to tap into the new resource. The city continued to grow throughout the twentieth century and today has over 90,000 people.
Now, it is home to The University of Central Oklahoma, Oklahoma Christian University, thriving business communities, and many cultural amenities. Edmond is also known as one of the safest cities in Oklahoma and ranks highly on livability lists.
4. Lawton
Lawton is a city with a diverse population in southwestern Oklahoma. The city is home to Fort Sill, a U.S. Army post. Thus, many military families are living in Lawton. The city also has a large Native American population and many schools and businesses that cater to this community. In addition, it is a thriving city with many shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Then, for outdoor enthusisats, Lake Lawtonka is the perfect place to enjoy a weekend getaway. There is something for everyone in Lawton!
3. Norman
Nestled in the heart of Oklahoma, the city of Norman is a thriving community with a rich history. Founded in the late 1800s, Norman was initially a tiny farming town. However, it soon began to grow, thanks partly to the nearby University of Oklahoma (OU). Today, Norman is home to over 120,000 people and has become a vibrant hub for culture and commerce. The city’s thriving downtown area features a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as several art galleries and museums. And of course, OU remains a significant presence in Norman, with over 30,000 students enrolled at the university. Whether you are visiting for business, pleasure, or hoping to tour OU, Norman is sure to have something to offer.
2. Tulsa
Tulsa is the second-largest city in Oklahoma, referred to by many as the “Oil Capital of The World.” With a population of over 923,000 and its prime location on the Arkansas River, Tulsa is Oklahoma’s major economic and cultural center. It is the home of several prominent corporations, including American Airlines, ConocoPhillips, and Samson Resources. Another thing to note is that the city has a thriving arts community. Specifically, the Tulsa Performing Arts Center is highly favored by many because it is one of the largest performing arts venues in the country. You can see shows on Broadway such as Anastasia, Frozen, and Hamilton there. Tulsa also has many attractions, including the Philbrook Museum of Art and the Tulsa Zoo, providing fun to all. With so much to offer, Tulsa is a fantastic city to move to!
1. Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City is the best city to live in Oklahoma for several reasons. First, it is the capital of Oklahoma and the largest city in the state, so there are plenty of amenities and attractions to enjoy. Second, Oklahoma City is home to many cultural attractions, including the Myriad Botanical Gardens, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, and the Oklahoma City Museum of Art. Third, the city has a strong economy and a low cost of living. Fourth, Oklahoma City is in the center of the state, so it is convenient to get around. Lastly, the city has a mild climate and is a great place to raise a family. In conclusion, Oklahoma City has everything you could want in a city, making it the best place to live in Oklahoma.