Top 5 Reasons Why Oklahoma City Was Voted #1 Big City to Live In

Oklahoma City just earned the title of the #1 Best Big City to Live In The U.S. by the U.S. News & World Report, and it’s easy to see why. From its thriving economy and affordable living to a dynamic culture and short commute times, OKC checks every box for today’s homebuyer. At Homes by Taber ®, we’ve always believed in the value of building in Oklahoma City, and now the rest of the country is taking notice too. 

Whether you’re considering relocating to Oklahoma or are already living nearby and dreaming of a new construction home, this ranking gives even more reason to put down roots here. Read on to explore why Oklahoma City deserves this national spotlight, and why our team at Homes by Taber is your ideal partner in building a future here. 

1. Cost of Living: A Smart Financial Move

Affordability remains one of Oklahoma City’s strongest advantages, especially when compared to other major metropolitan areas. While many cities across the country face skyrocketing home prices and living costs, Oklahoma City remains budget-friendly without sacrificing quality of life. 

Key stats from the U.S. News & World Report:

• Median home value: $230,952
• National average home value: $370,489
• Median household income: $67,188
• Unemployment rate: 3.38% (lower than the national average of 4.5%)

For both homeowners and renters, OKC offers more for your money. This is especially true in our Homes by Taber communities where you’ll find high-quality construction, energy-efficient features and designer finishes without the high price tag you’d expect in other large cities. 

We build homes that are not only beautiful and functional, but also packed with included features that reduce long-term costs, such as:

• Frigidaire Energy Efficient Appliances
• Blown-in R-15 Wall Insulation and R-44 or R-38 Attic Insulation
• 15 SEER High Efficient Air Conditioning and Tankless Water Heaters
• Double Glazed Vinyl Low E Windows with Argon
• Water-Saving Delta Plumbing Fixtures

2. A Growing Job Market 

Job stability is a huge factor in choosing where to live, and Oklahoma City is above national trends with its strong economy and expanding industries. 

Some highlights of the city are:

• Job market stronger than the national average
• Major industries include energy, aerospace, healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing
• Average commute time is just around 20 minutes
• Only 3.38% unemployment (national average: 4.5%)

As one of the fastest growing cities in the region, OKC is attracting major businesses and startups alike. The city continues to invest in economic development, opening doors for professionals at every stage of their career. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a seasoned executive, the OKC metro offers job opportunities and career growth to take advantage of. 

3. Culture, Community, and Entertainment

While affordability and job opportunities are vital, what truly makes Oklahoma City feel like home is its vibrant cultural scene and welcoming community. Whether you’re a foodie, sports fanatic, or art lover, there’s something here for everyone. 

Here are some of the top things to love about living in OKC:

• A nationally recognized culinary scene, known for BBQ, comfort food, and international cuisine
• A revitalized downtown with local shops, bars, breweries, and music venues
• Home to the NBA 2025 Champion OKC Thunder, making game nights a city-wide celebration
• Family-focused entertainment like the Oklahoma City Zoo, Science Museum, and Myriad Botanical Gardens
• Deep-rooted local pride and community involvement

If you’re interested in the outdoors, Oklahoma City is home to miles of trails, parks, and lakes for biking, hiking, boating, and more. From Scissortail Park downtown to the winding trails of Lake Hefner, residents enjoy year-round access to recreation. 

4. Big City Energy, Small-Town Feel

One of the most unique aspects of living in Oklahoma City is its ability to balance big-city advantages with small-town warmth. It’s a rare combination that continues to attract people from across the country. 

OKC by the numbers:

• Population: 713,207
• Median age: 33.8
• 45.1% of residents are married; 54.9% are single
• Diverse age demographics, including 28% under 20 and 22% aged 45-65

Oklahoma City is multi-generational and inclusive and is a great place to raise a family, grow a career, or settle into retirement. The people are also friendly and welcoming, and it won’t take long before you feel like you truly belong. 

5. Infrastructure, Innovation, and Investment In The Future

No matter how good Oklahoma City already is to live in, it’s still actively planning and building for the future. With significant investments in infrastructure, innovation, and long-term livability, OKC continues to evolve in ways that benefit both current and future residents. 

Some of highlights of Oklahoma City’s forward-thinking development are:

• MAPS (Metropolitan Area Projects): Now in its fourth iteration with 16 projects in the works, this initiative will focus on community improvements from parks, trails, and sidewalks to youth centers, public transit, and sports facilities.
• Public Transportation: OKC’s EMBARK system is growing, and new efforts in bike lanes, pedestrian walkways, and other forms of transit reflects a more accessible and sustainable vision for the city.
• Will Rogers International Airport: Recent updates have been made to the airport such as adding new gates, expanding the security area, and adding more amenities throughout the airport. The first international flight is also scheduled to take place in November 2025 to Cancun, Mexico. These updates have modernized the travel experience and expanded flight options, making OKC more connected than ever. 

Why Homes by Taber Builds in Oklahoma City

At Homes by Taber, we’ve always believed that OKC is one of the best places to build a life, and we’ve been building around the area for 25 years. This new national recognition is just another confirmation of what our homeowners already know, but for anyone thinking about relocating to the area, here’s what sets us apart as Oklahoma’s Favorite Builder ®:

• High-end features and finishes in every home at no extra cost
• Included storm shelters and healthy home technology
• Wide range of floor plans for every lifestyle and life stage
• Access to top schools and family-friendly amenities 
• Communities in Edmond, Moore, Mustang, Norman, Yukon, Piedmont, and more
• Local expertise and dedication to service, quality, and transparency 

Your Future Starts Here

Whether you’re relocating for work, downsizing for retirement, or buying your very first home, there’s never been a better time to make Oklahoma City your home base. With national recognition as the #1 Best Big City to Live In The U.S., OKC is proving itself as a place where life is affordable, opportunity is growing, and community is real. 

At Homes by Taber, we’re proud to be part of that story, and we’d be honored to help you write your next chapter here. If you’re interested in learning more about our communities and new homes in OKC and the surrounding metro area, give us a call at (405) 984-1185 or fill out our online form today.