Cost of Living in Oklahoma City, OK [2025]

The cost of living in Oklahoma City is about 14.5% lower than the U.S. average, according to Sperling’s Best Places. With a wide range of housing options, plenty of fun outdoor activities, and booming energy and manufacturing industries, it’s an excellent place for families of all shapes and sizes to relocate.

Cost-of-living expenses have a major impact on all life decisions, so it's understandable if you're feeling uncertain about what lies ahead. Fortunately, we’re here to break down the basics of the cost of living in Oklahoma City so that you can confidently make your decision. Read on to learn more about rental costs, property values, local taxes and fees, food costs, and other necessary living expenses in Oklahoma City.

*Note: We used internal data and cross-referenced with neighborhood data from Sperling’s BestPlaces, Numbeo, the MIT Living Wage Calculator, Rent.com, and Redfin.com to give you the most accurate snapshot of rents across Oklahoma City as of August 2025.***

Cost of Living in Oklahoma City

What Is the Cost of Living in Oklahoma City?

As one of the most affordable major metros in the U.S., Oklahoma City (known locally as OKC) offers a low cost of living that makes it a standout for renters. According to data from Apartment List and Best Places, OKC’s overall cost of living is about 14.5% below the national average, with housing being the biggest reason why.

The citywide average rent for a one-bedroom is around $1,234, but prices shift depending on where you look. Central spots like Midtown and Bricktown come with slightly higher rents thanks to their walkability, nightlife, and downtown access. Want more breathing room in your budget? Neighborhoods like Greenvale, Jones, Mustang, and Forest Park tend to offer significantly lower rents—often several hundred dollars less each month.

Where Is the Cost of Living Highest near Oklahoma City, OK?

Just north of the city, Edmond is one of OKC’s most sought-after suburbs, and that demand shows up in the price tag. With top-rated schools, polished neighborhoods, and a reputation for safety, Edmond’s cost of living is still about 14.5% lower than the national average but 4% higher than the state average.

One-bedroom apartments in Edmond average around $1,517, well above the OKC average of $1,167. For renters looking for high-end amenities and prestige just minutes from the city core, Edmond delivers if your budget can keep up.

Where Is the Cost of Living Most Affordable Near Oklahoma City?

Tucked southwest of OKC, Lawton offers small-town quiet with big-time savings. The overall cost of living here is about 25.3% lower than the national average, thanks mostly to ultra-affordable housing and low day-to-day expenses.

One-bedroom apartments in Lawton average around $670, making it one of the most budget-friendly places in the metro area. For renters looking to stretch their dollar without straying too far from city access, Lawton makes a strong case.

What Is the Median Rent in Oklahoma City, OK?

As of August 2025, the median rent across all apartment sizes in Oklahoma City sits at $1,094, rising 0.8% from last month and 0.8% compared to the same time last year. The median one-bedroom rent is $903, while the median two-bedroom rent is $1,119.

That places OKC among the most affordable large cities in the U.S., with rents coming in 22% below the national average of $1,402. While prices have cooled slightly in 2025, they’ve stayed more stable than in many other markets, making OKC a dependable option for budget-conscious renters.

Across the metro, rent varies by neighborhood, but even the priciest spots, like Edmond or Nichols Hills, remain more affordable than similar suburbs in other major cities. For renters looking to get the most out of their monthly budget, Oklahoma City keeps delivering.

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How Much Is a One-Bedroom Apartment in Oklahoma City, OK?

As of August 2025, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Oklahoma City is $1,234. That number shifts depending on where you’re looking; central neighborhoods like Midtown and Bricktown often run north of that, while more affordable areas like Greenvale can dip below $700.

Prices also rise with newer buildings and in-demand amenities like gated communities, in-unit laundry, and a fitness center. So whether you’re after all the extras or just the essentials, OKC has options that fit your budget.

How Much Is a Two-Bedroom Apartment in Oklahoma City?

As of August 2025, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Oklahoma City is $1,480. In pricier areas like Edmond or Nichols Hills, you’ll likely see listings starting above $1,300, while more affordable neighborhoods—think Jones, Forest Park, and Mustang—can dip below $900 for similar space.

Expect monthly costs to climb with perks like renovated kitchens, covered parking, or proximity to top employers like Tinker Air Force Base or OU Health. The good news? Even with upgrades, OKC’s two-bedrooms remain a solid value compared to other major metros.

How Much Is Housing in Oklahoma City?

According to the latest rent report on Oklahoma City, the median rent index is $903 for a one-bedroom apartment and $1,119 for a two-bedroom. The median rent in Oklahoma City rose by 0.8% last month and by 0.8% over the past 12 months. The increase has outpaced the 0.8% decrease in the national average and the 0.1% increase in the Oklahoma state average.

When looked at alongside comparable cities in the country, like Indianapolis, Kansas City, and Dallas, Oklahoma City’s rent prices are competitive. For example, Indianapolis’ median rent index is $1,077 for a one-bedroom apartment and $1,276 for a two-bedroom apartment, while Kansas City's median rent index is $1,162 for a one-bedroom apartment and $1,372 for a two-bedroom. Not surprisingly, Dallas is even more expensive, with a median rent index of $1,230 for a one-bedroom and $1,456 for a two-bedroom.

The Oklahoma City housing market is also seeing steady growth, with median home prices currently at $275,000. These prices are below competing areas like Kansas City, whose prices average at $302,800.

What Salary Do I Need to Live in Oklahoma City, OK?

To determine your recommended salary in Oklahoma City, you’ll first need to determine what lifestyle you plan to lead. According to MIT, the living wage in Oklahoma City is $20.95 per hour for a single, child-free adult, which is the basic wage required to remain above the poverty threshold. Just remember that this living wage will force you to live pretty frugally, as it only pays for essentials such as housing, food, and necessities and does not account for any extra costs like entertainment or dining out.

The average salary index in Oklahoma City is $71,000 per year, or roughly $34.13 per hour. Remember that the living wage, average salary, and recommended salary are three very different figures. To determine your recommended salary in Oklahoma City, you can follow the 30% rule for rent.

According to the 30% rule, you should spend less than 30% of your gross income on rent to live comfortably. With an average one-bedroom rent of $1,480 in Oklahoma City, that means your monthly income should be at least $4,933, or around $49,200 a year, to stay in the financial comfort zone.

While this figure might seem reasonable, the recommended salary is for a very minimalistic lifestyle. If you anticipate additional living costs, such as dining, entertainment, travel, or debt repayment, you’ll need to pursue a higher salary, a less expensive apartment, or both.

Thankfully, the typical annual salaries for common professions in Oklahoma City are highly competitive, with the three highest annual salaries belonging to management, legal, and healthcare positions, respectively.

How Much Is Transportation in Oklahoma City?

Oklahoma City’s official public transportation operator is the Central Oklahoma Transportation and Parking Authority (COTPA), which today does business as EMBARK. Through EMBARK, Oklahoma City residents can take advantage of multimodal transit service throughout the greater Oklahoma City area.

The EMBARK services include:

• 23 route, fixed-route bus service.
• OKC Streetcar.
• ADA paratransit services.
• River ferry transit service.
• Spokies bike-share service.

Single-trip cash bus fares on the EMBARK fixed-route bus service cost $1 to $3 for adults or $0.50 to $1.50 for reduced fare riders, including seniors 65+, Medicare holders, children ages 7 through 17, and persons with qualifying disabilities. Children age 6 and under ride for free. For frequent riders, one-day, seven-day, and 30-day unlimited passes are available.

The EMBARK public transportation system in Oklahoma City is highly dependable and likely the most cost-effective method of getting around the city. There are other available options as well, including ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. There are also taxis, car rentals, and chauffeur services, but these tend to be the more expensive options.

If you're a single adult without children, you'll spend about $11,047 yearly for car-based transportation in Oklahoma City. A family of four, including two working adults and two children, will pay $18,529. Thankfully, gasoline prices are around $2.93 per gallon, which is well below the national average of $3.41.

How Much Are Groceries in Oklahoma City?

Oklahomans love their land and have been lucky enough to reap the benefits of eating food that the land provides. As a result, Oklahoma City offers countless dining options, where you can find the city’s famous chicken-fried steak, fried-onion burgers, barbecue, and Indian fry bread tacos.

Dining out in Oklahoma City is affordable, with an average meal costing $17.50 at an inexpensive restaurant. A three-course dinner for two people at a midrange restaurant will run $80 without alcohol or dessert.

Single adults without children can expect to spend at least $4,219 on food per year. However, if you're a family of four with two working adults and two children, you can expect to pay $12,365 per year for food.

Anticipate costs similar to the national average for food items purchased from the local Sprouts Farmers Market, WinCo Foods, or Walmart Neighborhood Market. For example, one gallon of regular milk will run you $4.17 in the grocery store, with the national average being $4.02.

How Much Is Child Care in Oklahoma City?

Child care is a major monthly line item for families in Oklahoma City. According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, full-time care averages about $10,753 per year for one child and $21,505 for two children in the metro area. Costs can shift based on your child’s age, the care setting (center-based versus in-home), and where in the city you’re looking.

To ease the financial load, many families get creative, splitting shifts to reduce paid care hours, opting for home-based providers, or exploring child care options in more affordable areas where rates (and waitlists) may be more manageable. Shared care setups with trusted families can also be a cost-effective way to keep things flexible and supportive.

How Much Is Healthcare in Oklahoma City?

Whether you go to the doctor annually for your checkups or have a medical condition that requires you to see them more regularly, having medical insurance helps keep your costs to a minimum. Additionally, if any emergencies arise in your new hometown, it is nice to know you’ll be able to afford the proper care you’ll need.

Because healthcare is an essential item, you will also want to account for proper medical care when planning your budget in Oklahoma City. A single adult without children will pay around $3,208 for medical care over the year. Two working adults with two children will pay $10,185.

How Much Are Utilities in Oklahoma City?

The weather in Oklahoma City can be somewhat temperamental. The spring and summer months of May through August bring humid heat and a muggy climate with regular thunderstorms, April through June marks tornado season, and winter from December through February typically brings cold weather and high winds.

The coldest month in Oklahoma City is January, with an average overnight temperature of 26.2 degrees Fahrenheit. Conversely, July is the hottest month of summer, with the average daytime high typically reaching 93.1 degrees Fahrenheit.

To stay warm through the relatively cool winter nights and cool through the hot, muggy summer, you'll need to account for higher utilities. Oklahoma City’s basic utilities include electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, running $241.12 for a 915-square-foot apartment. Adding on the internet with 60 Mbps or more with unlimited data will cost you an extra $83.10, and a mobile phone plan is an additional $79.12, for a total of $403.34 each month.

It’s always a good idea to better understand how much utilities will cost in an apartment before you move, as it will allow you to budget accordingly for this sometimes overlooked expense.

Oklahoma City Fitness and Entertainment

Oklahoma City offers fitness and entertainment opportunities for everyone. However, if you like to spend your time in a local gym for workouts, you’ll want to consider club membership costs at VASA Fitness, Evolve Fitness OKC, Colaw Fitness of Oklahoma City Gyms, or any of the others in the area. Thankfully, these costs are relatively low in OKC, with the average monthly fee for a fitness club membership costing $31.40.

If having affordable access to a gym is important to you, take our quick quiz and select "gym/fitness center" as one of your preferred amenities. We can match you up with rental properties in your dream neighborhood and price range that feature great gyms and pools on-site.

Through some of the more temperate months of the year, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors Oklahoma City has to offer. Enjoy local parks like the Will Rogers Garden, the Martin Park Nature Center, and the Scissortail Park. Or explore outside of Oklahoma City to visit one of the 32 state parks.

If you’re looking to escape the heat during the summertime, you can purchase a seat at the local cinema for an average of $15 without snacks or drinks. Otherwise, check out some of the museums in town, like the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, and the Science Museum Oklahoma.

How Much Are Taxes in Oklahoma City?

Despite Oklahoma having a progressive income tax, the top marginal rates still fall well below the bottom half of the states across the country. Anyone looking to purchase a home in Oklahoma can also anticipate property taxes below the national average. The sales tax rate in Oklahoma is the sixth-highest in the country when you include state and local taxes. For Oklahoma City, in particular, expect a sales tax rate of 8.625%.

Oklahoma City’s Job Market

The current job market in Oklahoma City is comparable to other similarly sized metropolitan areas. The current unemployment rate in Oklahoma City is lower than the national average and is currently sitting at 3.0%. However, it's worth noting that, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is currently $67,015.

The top employers in Oklahoma City include the state government, the University of Oklahoma, Integris Health, and the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center. Jobs are readily available across the city, especially for those seeking a career in aviation, energy, or healthcare. There is also demand for pipe fitters, welders, and machinists in Oklahoma City.

Find Your Next Apartment in Oklahoma City

Whether you are looking to move somewhere with cowboy culture, delicious food, or a low cost of living, Oklahoma City might be the place for you. Register with Apartment List today and start checking out the hundreds of available apartments to rent in Oklahoma City. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.

What to Know About the Cost of Living in Oklahoma City, OK

How expensive is an apartment in Oklahoma City?

A one-bedroom apartment in Oklahoma City costs $1,234 on average, while a two-bedroom apartment in Oklahoma City costs $1,480 on average as of August 2025.

What is the cheapest rent in Oklahoma City?

The most affordable option across the city is a one-bedroom apartment, with a median rent of $903. In lower-cost neighborhoods like Jones, Mustang, or Forest Park, prices can dip even further, with some one-bedrooms renting for under $700, offering major value for budget-conscious renters.

How expensive is it to live in Oklahoma City?

If you rent a one-bedroom at the city’s median of $903, your annual rent would be around $10,836. Add in estimated yearly costs for groceries ($4,219), healthcare ($3,208), and transportation ($11,047), and the total basic living expenses for a single adult without children come to roughly $29,310 per year—well below many major U.S. cities. This doesn’t include child care, utilities, debt repayment, or personal spending, but OKC still ranks as one of the most affordable large metros in the country.

How far is Oklahoma City from Dallas?

Oklahoma City is 206.7 miles away from Dallas. It takes 3 hours and 42 minutes to get to Dallas from Oklahoma City by car, 19 hours by bike, and 73 hours by foot.

How far is Oklahoma City from Tulsa?

Oklahoma City is 107 miles away from Tulsa. It takes 1 hour and 34 minutes to get to Tulsa from Oklahoma City by car, 10 hours by bike, and 37 hours by foot.

What is the population of Oklahoma City?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Oklahoma City is approximately 681,054. It is the most populous city in the state of Oklahoma.

What is a good salary in Oklahoma City?

Using the 30% rule, you’d need to earn about $58,480 per year to comfortably afford Oklahoma City’s average apartment rent (all bedrooms) of $1,462. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is currently $67,015, which means most renters stay well within the recommended budget range for housing.