Oklahoma City and Tulsa both made U.S. News & World Report’s list of the 150 Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2025-2026. Chosen cities were selected for their value, high quality of life, and strong job market.
Oklahoma City, ranked as the #16 best place to live, received props for its expanding food and entertainment scene, energetic feel, and strong Western heritage. It’s friendly, accommodating people were also a driving factor.
Ranked #76, Tulsa made the list for its tight-knit community, variety of outdoor activities, and stacked calendar of social events like Zeeco Oktoberfest Tulsa, Mayfest, and Tulsa Tough.
- Low Cost of Living: U.S. News & World Report commended the cities’ low housing costs. The average housing cost in Oklahoma City was $199,303 and $196,837, compared to the $281,900 national average.
- Living in Tulsa: The Best Places to Live in the U.S. list noted that young people tend to live in downtown Tulsa, while families are flocking to midtown neighborhoods like Maple Ridge and suburbs like Jenks and Broken Arrow.
- Homes in Oklahoma City: Oklahoma City’s Midtown and Deep Deuce districts were noted as popular with singles and young professionals, while suburbs like Edmond and Moore were preferred by families.
