Top 10 Reasons to Move to Tulsa

Tulsa city sky line with TOP 10 graphic overlaid.

Top 10 Reasons to Move to Tulsa

September 15, 2021

Residents of Tulsa, Oklahoma know just how much the city has to offer—but people looking to start another chapter of their lives in a new city should also know what this gem of a metro has to offer. Homes by Taber, Oklahoma’s Favorite Builder, is well aware of the benefits of living in Tulsa or its surrounding suburbs, which is why we’ve listed the top 10 reasons you should consider moving to the area and why we’ve selected it as the best place to build next. 

#1 - Welcoming atmosphere 

Although Tulsa is the second-largest city in the state and 47th-most populous city in America, it has the warm and welcoming characteristics of a smaller town. The Tulsa metropolitan area is home to almost one million residents and has all of the modern amenities you’re looking for with city living, without the unfriendly atmosphere that is often associated with bigger cities. The people here are friendly and inviting, meaning it’s an ideal place for people of all ages to make and cultivate lifelong friendships. 

#2 - Low cost of living 

One drawback to city living for many people is the high cost of living, but that’s simply not the case in Tulsa. According to one source, the cost of living is about 16.8 percent lower in Tulsa than the U.S. average. Although you can save big on many parts of life here, one of the most noticeable cost differences is in housing—home prices are a whopping 49.7 percent lower compared to the country as a whole. While some of the sought-after suburbs around Tulsa come with a higher cost of living, they’re all still below the U.S. average. 

#3 - Strong economy 

The low cost of living, paired with an abundance of job opportunities and diverse industries, has created a strong and steady economy over the years. 

Tulsa has been at the epicenter of the energy industry since the early 1900s, dubbing itself “The Oil Capital of the World”. After the founding of the United States Oil and Gas Association, many large oil companies flocked to the city and its suburbs—including Williams Companies, ConocoPhillips, ONEOK and more. 

If you’re not looking for a job in the energy sector, there’s a wide variety of industries and companies of all sizes to start or continue your career. Top employment sectors in Tulsa include aerospace, finance, technology, media, law, healthcare and manufacturing. Major employers include BOK Financial, the headquarters of QuikTrip, PennWell, ConsumerAffairs and American Airlines’ global maintenance and engineering headquarters—which is the city’s largest employer and the largest maintenance facility in the world. The TV and film industry has also made a strong showing across Oklahoma, including the Tulsa region, in recent years with the Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts, and Culture located in the center of the action.   

#4 - Family-friendly activities 

There’s no shortage of activities in Tulsa, and there’s plenty of ways to enjoy time together as a family. Perhaps the most well-known attraction to residents and visitors from all over the state is the Gathering Place, which was named America’s Best New Attraction by USA Today upon its opening in 2019. There’s something for everyone here, with outdoor activities, walking trails, an adventure playground, kayaking, entertainment pavilion and more. The Tulsa Zoo, the Oklahoma Aquarium in Jenks, amusement parks, water parks and the Discovery Lab children’s museum only scratch the surface of kid-friendly fun in the Tulsa metropolitan area. 

#5 - Entertainment for all ages 

While there’s lots of ways to keep kids entertained, adults need to have some fun, too. Catch a show from your favorite musicians at the BOK Center, Tulsa Performing Arts Center, Brady Theater or historic Cain’s Ballroom. Admire thousands of flowers, herbs and plants at the Tulsa Botanic Garden. Enjoy a weekend at the River Spirit Casino Resort, featuring all of your favorite casino games, a luxury pool with a swim up bar, relaxing spa and various dining options. Lastly, spend time appreciating art at the Philbrook Museum of Art and the Gilcrease Museum—with vast collections from local, national and international artists. 

Various annual events and festivals are held in the greater Tulsa area each year, much to the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike. Mark your calendars for the Tulsa State Fair, Oktoberfest, Tulsa Beer & Wine Festival and holiday-themed events. 

Sports fanatics have every opportunity to attend games and matches throughout the year, with a wide array of teams at the professional and collegiate levels. Professional soccer, ice hockey, baseball and rugby teams call Tulsa home, as well as three NCAA Division I and II colleges—University of Tulsa, Oral Roberts University and Rogers State University. 

#6 - Diversity and culture 

Part of what makes Tulsa such a great place to live is its diverse population. The strong economy and welcoming atmosphere attracts people from all walks of life, from the United States and beyond. Not only does Tulsa embrace this diversity, but it also offers so many ways for residents to immerse themselves into various cultures. Attend the Intertribal Indian Club Powwow of Champions, Scotfest in Broken Arrow, India Fest, Greek Festival, Festival Viva Mexico and more throughout the year—or simply try out a new-to-you international cuisine at one of many locally owned Tulsa area restaurants. 

#7 - Natural surroundings 

While the Tulsa region is home to many man-made attractions, the natural beauty that’s existed for thousands of years is hard to ignore. One of northeastern Oklahoma’s most unique recreational treasures is Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area, with over 300 acres of land just a few miles from vibrant downtown. Even with its proximity to downtown, you’ll feel far away from the hustle and bustle—walk, hike or bike along 25 miles of trails, enjoy views of the Arkansas River and appreciate the outdoors in this secluded, quiet part of town. 

Tulsa and its surrounding towns are also home to some of the state’s most popular lakes, perfect for fishing, boating, swimming, kayaking and more. Skiatook Lake, Oologah Lake, Lake Eufaula and Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees are all within easy driving distance of Tulsa.  

#8 - Perfect for retirees 

When we say Tulsa is a great place to live for people of all ages, we really mean it. The affordability, excess of activities and attractions, outdoor recreation and easy access to healthcare creates an ideal location for retirees. Additionally, the state of Oklahoma is a tax-friendly state for retirement, offering a full exemption for Social Security retirement benefits and a deduction toward 401(k)s and pensions. 

#9 - Strong sense of community 

We mentioned the fact that Tulsa is a big city with a welcoming, small-town atmosphere—that pace of life creates a strong sense of community amongst residents. Whether you were born and raised in Tulsa or recently moved, there’s a huge emphasis placed on the betterment of the city. Joining civic organizations, participating in local events and activities or simply supporting local businesses are great ways to plant roots and establish ties to the community. 

#10 - The highest quality homes 

Since 2000, Homes by Taber has worked hard to bring expertly designed and built homes and thoughtfully located communities to the most sought-after towns in the greater Oklahoma City area. But after years of thought, effort and dedication, our team is proud to offer the same award-winning products and exceptional customer experience to Tulsa and its surrounding suburbs. 

Be on the lookout for upcoming communities in Broken Arrow, Catoosa, Owasso and Jenks.

While we’ve listed the top 10 reasons to call Tulsa home, there’s so much more to experience and love about this one-of-a-kind region. For more information, give us a call at (918) 393-4149 or fill out an online form today.

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