Housing Costs in Moore, OK
Housing is typically the largest expense for residents in Moore, Oklahoma. In 2025, the median home value in Moore is approximately $225,000 for a 3-bedroom single-family house. Prices can vary significantly by neighborhood, with newer developments on the west side of the city generally commanding higher prices than older homes closer to the city center.
For those looking to rent, a typical 2-bedroom apartment in Moore ranges from $1,100 to $1,500 per month. Rental prices are influenced by factors such as proximity to major employers, access to highways, and the age and amenities of the property.
Some neighborhoods in Moore have homeowners associations (HOAs) that charge monthly or annual fees. These fees typically cover maintenance of common areas, community amenities, and in some cases, utilities like water and trash service. HOA fees in Moore generally range from $50 to $300 per month.
Utilities and Energy Bills
Utility costs in Moore are generally in line with the national average. Residents can expect to pay around $150 per month for electricity, with higher bills during the hot summer months when air conditioning is a necessity. Natural gas, which is used for heating and cooking in many homes, typically costs $50 to $100 per month.
Water, sewer, and trash services are often bundled together and billed by the City of Moore. The average monthly cost for these services is approximately $75 for a single-family home. Some neighborhoods with HOAs may include these utilities in the monthly dues.
| Utility | Typical Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $150 |
| Natural Gas | $50 – $100 |
| Water, Sewer, Trash | $75 |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
The cost of groceries in Moore is slightly lower than the national average. A single person can expect to spend around $300 per month on groceries, while a family of four typically spends $900 to $1,100 per month. These figures assume a mix of cooking at home and occasional dining out.
To give an idea of local prices, here’s a typical basket of goods in Moore:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $2.25
- Dozen eggs: $2.00
- Pound of chicken breast: $3.50
Dining out can add significantly to monthly expenses. A meal at a casual restaurant in Moore typically costs $12 to $20 per person, while a nicer dinner for two might run $50 to $75.
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Moore residents pay a sales tax of 8.5% on most purchases, which includes the 4.5% state sales tax and a 4% city sales tax. Property taxes in Moore are assessed at a rate of around 1.1% of a home’s assessed value. For a $225,000 home, this equates to approximately $2,475 per year or $206 per month.
Vehicle owners in Moore must also pay an annual excise tax and registration fee based on the value and age of their vehicle. For a $25,000 car, the excise tax would be approximately $725 in the first year, dropping to $225 by the fifth year.
| Tax | Rate |
|---|---|
| Sales Tax | 8.5% |
| Property Tax | 1.1% |
| Vehicle Excise Tax (Year 1) | $725 on a $25k vehicle |
Monthly Budget Summary
To summarize, here’s a rough breakdown of monthly expenses for three different household types in Moore. Note that these are pre-tax figures and actual take-home pay would need to be higher to cover these costs.
| Expense | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (rent/mortgage) | $1,100 | $1,500 | $1,875 |
| Utilities | $250 | $325 | $400 |
| Groceries & Dining | $400 | $700 | $1,100 |
| Transportation | $300 | $500 | $800 |
| Healthcare | $200 | $500 | $800 |
| Other | $250 | $400 | $600 |
| Monthly Total (pre-tax) | $2,500 | $3,925 | $5,575 |
Lifestyle Considerations
Moore offers a suburban lifestyle with relatively easy access to the amenities and job opportunities of Oklahoma City. Commute times for those working in OKC are typically 20 to 30 minutes each way. Moore itself has a growing number of local employers, particularly in the healthcare and retail sectors.
Housing in Moore is generally more affordable than in Oklahoma City proper, with larger lots and newer construction available. However, this comes with a tradeoff of longer commutes and less walkability. Homes in the older parts of Moore may be smaller or require more maintenance, but often come with the benefit of more established neighborhoods and mature trees.
Moore has a good selection of parks and recreational facilities, including the sprawling Buck Thomas Park which features sports fields, walking trails, and a fishing pond. The city also boasts a modern community center and aquatics facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What salary do you need to live comfortably in Moore?
A: To live comfortably in Moore, a single person would need a gross (pre-tax) income of at least $2,500 per month. For a family of four, a gross monthly income of $5,500 or more is recommended. - Q: Is Moore more affordable than Oklahoma City?
A: In general, yes. Housing costs in Moore tend to be 10-20% lower than comparable properties in Oklahoma City. However, this can be offset by higher transportation costs for those commuting into the city for work. - Q: Are utilities expensive in Moore?
A: Utility costs in Moore are generally in line with the national average. A typical household can expect to pay $250 to $400 per month for electricity, gas, water, and sewer. - Q: How much does it cost to buy a house in Moore?
A: As of 2025, the median home price in Moore is around $225,000. However, prices can vary widely depending on the age, size, and location of the property. - Q: What is the sales tax rate in Moore?
A: The total sales tax rate in Moore is 8.5%, which includes a 4.5% state sales tax and a 4% city sales tax. This applies to most goods purchased in the city.