Cheapest Places to Live in Oklahoma

Oklahoma, known for its wide-open prairies, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage, offers a unique and affordable living experience. Landmarks such as the Oklahoma City National Memorial, the Philbrook Museum of Art, and the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge highlight the state's attractions. The state's economy is largely driven by sectors such as energy, agriculture, and manufacturing. Oklahoma's tax structure includes relatively low income and property taxes, contributing to its overall affordability. Despite recent inflation and rising food costs, Oklahoma remains one of the more affordable states in the central region, especially in its smaller towns and rural areas. The combination of a diverse economy and manageable living costs makes Oklahoma an attractive place for those seeking affordability and quality of life.

Affordable living in Oklahoma can often be found in smaller towns and suburban areas where housing costs and everyday expenses are lower. These regions provide a more manageable cost of living, which is essential for maintaining financial stability. Affordability is a crucial factor in livability, as it allows residents to enjoy a comfortable standard of living without undue financial strain. Factors contributing to the cheapest places to live in Oklahoma include lower housing demand in less populated areas, supportive local economic policies, and efficient public services. Utilizing C2ER's cost of living data helps to identify these affordable regions, ensuring that potential residents can make informed decisions. In a state known for its cultural richness and economic opportunities, finding affordable living options enhances the overall living experience.

Holdenville Population: 5,662 12% cheaper than Oklahoma average

Med. Home Value: $56,100 Med. Rent: $559 Med. Household Inc.: $32,141

With a cost of living index that is 12% cheaper than the state average, Holdenville is the cheapest place to live in Oklahoma. This area offers residents a remarkable blend of relatively low housing costs, budget-friendly grocery prices, affordable utilities, and economical health care services, making it an attractive destination for those seeking to stretch their dollars further. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life, Holdenville provides an inviting and cost-effective environment to call home.

Seminole Population: 7,155 10% cheaper than Oklahoma average

Med. Home Value: $61,900 Med. Rent: $628 Med. Household Inc.: $32,656

The second most affordable city in Oklahoma is Seminole and stands out for its cost-effective lifestyle. With an overall cost of living that is 10% cheaper than the Oklahoma average, overall goods and services, housing, utilities, transportation and health care costs fall within a reasonable range. Median household income levels are steady and come in at , which helps to increase the purchasing power of the local residents.

Blackwell Population: 6,634 9% cheaper than Oklahoma average

Med. Home Value: $66,600 Med. Rent: $750 Med. Household Inc.: $42,407

Blackwell lands in the #3 spot for the cheapest cities to live in Oklahoma, with a cost of living that is 9% cheaper than the state average. With home prices averaging and rental rates coming in around , it helps that household income levels average about , which assists with paying the mortgage or your monthly rent. Its robust public school system and accessible health care further enhance its appeal, making it a great place to settle down. The strong community spirit and ample recreational opportunities add to its charm.

Henryetta Population: 5,586 9% cheaper than Oklahoma average

Med. Home Value: $69,600 Med. Rent: $650 Med. Household Inc.: $33,438

The cost of everyday grocery items, goods & services and of course housing, can have a significant impact on the overall cost of living in any area. Henryetta offers a picturesque and affordable living environment, with a cost of living that is 9% cheaper than the state average. Everyday items like ground beef , eggs , coffee and pizza are all fairly reasonable compared to most other cities, which helps reduce those grocery bills. Home prices are also fairly affordable (compared to the state average), coming in at around .

Anadarko Population: 6,600 9% cheaper than Oklahoma average

Med. Home Value: $64,800 Med. Rent: $604 Med. Household Inc.: $42,892

For those wanting to live well on a budget, Anadarko is ideal, with a cost of living that is 9% cheaper than the state average. Reasonable housing prices (compared to the Oklahoma average) of and rental prices of are paired with economical goods and services and a range of free or low-cost recreational activities. The city's proactive economic development initiatives also ensure a steady stream of job opportunities, making it a smart choice for those prioritizing financial ease.

Okmulgee Population: 11,768 8% cheaper than Oklahoma average

Med. Home Value: $69,800 Med. Rent: $644 Med. Household Inc.: $31,572

Okmulgee comes in at #6 on our list of the cheapest cities in Oklahoma and is a haven for those seeking affordability without sacrificing convenience. The city is known for its discount shopping centers and budget-friendly dining options and has a cost of living that is 8% cheaper than Oklahoma. The city's local markets provide fresh produce and other groceries at reduced prices, while parks and community centers offer free entertainment and leisure. This city is perfect for enjoying a high quality of life at a low cost.

Pauls Valley Population: 6,128 7% cheaper than Oklahoma average

Med. Home Value: $83,100 Med. Rent: $636 Med. Household Inc.: $37,846

With its cost-effective lifestyle, Pauls Valley is an attractive destination for those looking to live affordably. The city boasts suitable housing costs, affordable healthcare, and a variety of budget-friendly dining options. The community is welcoming and vibrant, providing residents with a rich social life at a fraction of the cost. Median income levels come in at , which provides financial stability, purchasing power and increases the quality of life in the city.

Cushing Population: 7,759 5% cheaper than Oklahoma average

Med. Home Value: $85,900 Med. Rent: $662 Med. Household Inc.: $42,783

A lower cost of living allows individuals to manage their expenses more effectively, reducing the risk of financial stress and debt. When essential costs such as housing, food, transportation, and healthcare are more affordable, people can achieve greater financial stability and resilience. Cushing fits that mold and has a cost of living that is 5% cheaper than Oklahoma.

Ponca City Population: 23,940 5% cheaper than Oklahoma average

Med. Home Value: $102,600 Med. Rent: $702 Med. Household Inc.: $44,281

Lower living costs can lead to a higher quality of life by making it easier for people to afford comfortable housing, nutritious food, and access to healthcare. It can also provide opportunities for better education, recreational activities, and community engagement, contributing to overall well-being. Ponca City is one of the most affordable cities in Oklahoma, and has a cost of living that is 5% cheaper than the state average.

Muskogee Population: 37,337 5% cheaper than Oklahoma average

Med. Home Value: $98,800 Med. Rent: $683 Med. Household Inc.: $38,218

With a cost of living that is 5% cheaper than Oklahoma, Muskogee comes in at #10 on our list of the cheapest places to live in Oklahoma. Financial stress is a significant factor affecting mental and physical health. By lowering the cost of living, individuals can experience reduced anxiety related to meeting monthly expenses, thereby improving overall health and well-being. The ability to afford basic necessities without constant worry contributes to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Full list of the cheapest places in Oklahoma

Rank	Location	Population	COL Index	Med. Home Value	Med. Household Inc.
1	Holdenville	5,662	76	$56,100	$32,141
2	Seminole	7,155	77	$61,900	$32,656
3	Blackwell	6,634	78	$66,600	$42,407
4	Henryetta	5,586	78	$69,600	$33,438
5	Anadarko	6,600	78	$64,800	$42,892
6	Okmulgee	11,768	79	$69,800	$31,572
7	Pauls Valley	6,128	80	$83,100	$37,846
8	Cushing	7,759	82	$85,900	$42,783
9	Ponca City	23,940	82	$102,600	$44,281
10	Muskogee	37,337	82	$98,800	$38,218
11	Miami	13,176	82	$80,100	$38,107
12	McAlester	18,042	82	$96,000	$43,174
13	Chickasha	16,326	82	$92,800	$48,796
14	Tecumseh	6,721	82	$90,800	$47,500
15	Altus	18,533	82	$89,200	$47,990
16	Sallisaw	8,536	82	$106,100	$33,423
17	Del City	21,762	82	$87,300	$44,504
18	Vinita	5,367	83	$88,800	$38,194
19	Idabel	6,872	83	$73,100	$29,175
20	Poteau	8,866	83	$110,500	$39,964
21	Wagoner	9,061	83	$110,000	$42,863
22	Sulphur	5,023	83	$101,900	$48,967
23	Ada	17,399	84	$110,000	$41,070
24	Clinton	9,117	84	$100,600	$50,608
25	Pryor Creek	9,417	84	$107,400	$42,672
26	Shawnee	31,361	84	$113,300	$41,123
27	El Reno	19,539	85	$114,300	$42,659
28	Duncan	22,529	85	$116,800	$50,017
29	Warr Acres	10,169	85	$117,600	$48,715
30	Lawton	93,535	85	$111,000	$47,690
31	Midwest City	57,392	86	$117,700	$49,368
32	Ardmore	24,834	86	$116,700	$45,602
33	Alva	5,046	86	$98,900	$46,929
34	Tahlequah	16,684	86	$141,000	$37,500
35	Guymon	11,381	86	$121,200	$51,234
36	Catoosa	7,930	87	$116,800	$57,643
37	Bartlesville	36,495	87	$128,600	$53,098
38	Skiatook	8,036	87	$126,000	$44,120
39	Bethany	19,292	88	$128,500	$51,286
40	Purcell	6,508	88	$143,600	$50,703
41	Sapulpa	21,170	88	$127,100	$54,530
42	Claremore	18,875	88	$134,500	$46,944
43	Enid	50,116	89	$112,800	$51,784
44	Coweta	9,803	89	$141,500	$55,160
45	Guthrie	11,296	89	$130,600	$47,542
46	Lone Grove	5,105	89	$145,800	$61,289
47	Tulsa	402,441	90	$143,400	$49,474
48	Yukon	27,557	90	$145,400	$72,065
49	Sand Springs	19,912	90	$145,000	$60,461
50	Woodward	12,213	90	$130,900	$48,697

Methodology

To formulate the list of the cheapest places to live in Oklahoma, AreaVibes utilized comprehensive data from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) cost of living index. The report is released annually and offers a detailed comparison of living expenses across various urban areas. The data is meticulously gathered by over 300 independent researchers, ensuring a high level of accuracy and reliability. The C2ER index encompasses more than 60 goods and services, categorized into six essential areas that significantly impact the cost of living. These categories and their respective weightings in the index are as follows: goods and services (33%), groceries (13%), health care (5%), housing (30%), transportation (9%), and utilities (10%).

Map of Cost of Living by State

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The map above is a great way to help you discover the most affordable states across the U.S. By highlighting states with the lowest cost of living, this map provides an in-depth look at where you can get the most value for your money. By visually representing this data, the map allows users to easily compare different regions and make informed decisions about potential relocations or investments. Additionally, it provides valuable insights into the economic conditions and lifestyle factors that influence these cost of living statistics. Whether you're planning a move, considering a new job, or simply curious about the economic landscape, this map is a useful resource for understanding and navigating the financial implications of living in different states.