Housing Costs in Norman
Housing options in Norman, OK span a range of prices and styles. Renters can expect to pay around $1,100-$1,400 per month for a typical 2-bedroom apartment, with prices varying based on location, age of the building, and included amenities. Neighborhoods closer to the University of Oklahoma campus or downtown tend to have higher rental rates.
For those looking to purchase a home, a standard 3-bedroom single-family house in Norman averages between $250,000-$350,000. Newer developments on the outskirts of town often feature larger homes and lots, while central Norman offers more character-rich historic properties. About half of Norman neighborhoods have active Homeowners Associations (HOAs), with monthly fees ranging from $50-$250.
Here’s a quick comparison of housing costs across popular Norman neighborhoods:
| Neighborhood | Avg. 2-BR Rent | Avg. 3-BR Home Price |
|---|---|---|
| Hall Park | $1,200 | $280,000 |
| Brookhaven | $1,350 | $320,000 |
| Castlerock | $1,150 | $250,000 |
Utility and Energy Expenses
Utility costs in Norman are fairly consistent with other suburbs in the Oklahoma City metro. Residents can expect the following average monthly bills:
- Electricity: $120-$200, higher in summer months
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $60-$80
- Natural Gas: $40-$80, higher in winter
- Internet: $50-$80
Properties with pools, extensive landscaping, or older HVAC systems may see utility costs on the higher end of those ranges. Many Norman electricity providers offer budget billing to help avoid summer and winter spikes.
Groceries and Food
Norman residents spend an average of $300-$400 per person per month on groceries and dining out. A gallon of milk runs about $3.50, while a loaf of bread is around $2.80. Eating a meal out costs about $12-$15 per person at a casual restaurant, or $30-$40 at a nicer establishment.
To feed a family of four in Norman, budget approximately $1,000-$1,200 per month for a mix of grocery shopping and occasional restaurant meals. Farmers markets and seasonal produce stands can help reduce costs while supporting local agriculture.
Taxes and Fees
The largest recurring tax for most Norman homeowners is property tax. Norman’s property tax rate is around 1.1% of assessed value, so the owner of a $300,000 home would owe about $3,300 per year. Renters do not pay property tax directly but should expect it to impact monthly rent prices.
Norman residents also pay a 4.25% sales tax on most purchases, which is slightly lower than the 4.5% state average. Vehicle owners are subject to an annual car registration fee, which varies based on the type and age of the vehicle but is typically between $50-$150 per year.
Example Monthly Budget
To summarize, here are some sample monthly budgets for common household types in Norman. Note that these are based on gross (pre-tax) income:
| Expense | Single Adult | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,200 | $1,500 | $1,800 |
| Utilities | $200 | $300 | $450 |
| Groceries/Food | $400 | $800 | $1,200 |
| Transportation | $300 | $500 | $800 |
| Other | $500 | $800 | $1,200 |
| Monthly Total | $2,600 | $3,900 | $5,450 |
Lifestyle Factors
Beyond the core living costs, there are several lifestyle factors to consider when budgeting for life in Norman. Commute times within Norman average about 20 minutes, but those traveling into Oklahoma City for work should plan for a 30-45 minute drive each way.
Norman’s historic central neighborhoods offer the easiest access to dining, entertainment, and the university. However, these older homes are often smaller and may lack modern features. Newer construction is concentrated in south and east Norman, where residents trade walkability and character for more square footage and updated amenities.
Access to parks, community centers, and quality schools is strong across most of Norman. The city maintains over 55 parks and offers extensive recreation programming. Norman Public Schools consistently rank among the best in the OKC metro.
Frequently Asked Questions
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Norman?
A single adult would need to earn around $2,600/month ($31,200/year) pre-tax to live comfortably in Norman. For a couple, aim for $3,900/month ($46,800/year). A family of four needs approximately $5,450/month ($65,400/year).
Is Norman cheaper than Oklahoma City?
Norman is slightly more affordable than Oklahoma City proper. Housing costs about 10% less in Norman, though suburbs on the north side of OKC offer similar prices.
Are utilities expensive in Norman?
Utilities in Norman are fairly average for the region. Expect to spend $200-$300/month for a typical apartment or $300-$450/month for a single-family home.
How much is the average rent in Norman?
As of 2025, the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Norman is $1,100-$1,400/month. Prices are higher near the university and lower on the outskirts of town.
What are the best affordable neighborhoods in Norman?
Castlerock, Eastwood Estates, and parts of Hall Park offer some of the best home values in Norman. For rentals, look in older complexes along Lindsey St or 12th Ave SE.
How much do you need to make to buy a house in Norman?
To afford the median Norman home price of $300,000, you’d need to earn around $5,500/month ($66,000/year) pre-tax, assuming a 10% down payment. With 20% down, the monthly income requirement drops to $4,900 ($58,800/year).
What are the property taxes like in Norman?
The property tax rate in Norman is approximately 1.1% of assessed value per year. For a $300,000 home, expect an annual property tax bill around $3,300.