Norman, OK vs. Edmond, OK: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Oklahoma City metro area? Housing costs in Edmond average nearly $300 more per month compared to Norman. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Norman and Edmond. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real costs of living in Norman vs Edmond in 2025.
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare between Norman and Edmond:
| Housing Type | Norman | Edmond |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $950 | $1,250 |
| Median 3BR House Payment | $1,350 | $1,650 |
🏆 Winner: Norman. Housing costs an average of $300 less per month in Norman compared to Edmond.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs also factor into monthly budgets. Expect the following utility expenses in Norman and Edmond:
- Electricity: $120-150/month (both cities)
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $80-100/month (both cities)
- Internet: $60-80/month (both cities)
Energy costs rise about 20% in the summer in both Norman and Edmond due to air conditioning. Both cities offer level billing programs to spread high summer costs over the full year.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable between Norman and Edmond.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries, dining out, and everyday purchases are similar between the two cities. Expect to spend around $350-450 per person monthly on groceries and household items in both Norman and Edmond.
Restaurant prices are nearly identical, with an average casual meal out costing about $12-15 per person in both cities.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are very comparable between Norman and Edmond.
Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are slightly higher in Edmond at an average rate of 1.1% vs 0.9% in Norman. For a $250,000 home, that’s a difference of about $40 per month.
City service fees like water, sewer and trash are included in the utility estimates above. HOA fees are more common in Edmond, typically ranging from $30-100/month. In Norman, many neighborhoods have no HOA or lower $20-50/month fees.
🏆 Winner: Norman. Lower property taxes and fewer HOA fees give Norman a slight edge.
Cost of Living Summary
| Expense | Norman | Edmond |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $950 – $1,350 | $1,250 – $1,650 |
| Utilities | $260 – $330 | $260 – $330 |
| Groceries | $350 – $450 | $350 – $450 |
| Transportation | $60 – $80 | $60 – $80 |
| Taxes & Fees | $180 – $225 | $220 – $275 |
| Misc Expenses | $200 – $300 | $200 – $300 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,000 – $2,735 | $2,340 – $3,085 |
Lifestyle Fit
While Edmond has higher housing costs, it offers newer homes, highly-rated schools, and easy access to Oklahoma City. Norman provides a vibrant college town feel with more affordable rent and mortgages.
Edmond is about 5°F cooler on average in the summer compared to Norman. Both cities are very car-dependent, with walkability limited to a few central neighborhoods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Norman more affordable than Edmond?
Yes, the cost of living in Norman is about 10-15% lower than Edmond, mainly due to cheaper housing. A household could save around $300 per month on housing costs by choosing Norman over Edmond.
- Which city has lower rent?
Rent prices are significantly lower in Norman. A typical 2-bedroom apartment costs nearly 25% less in Norman compared to Edmond.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Norman offers lower home prices and slightly lower property tax rates, making it more affordable for homebuyers. The median price for a 3-bedroom house is about $300 less per month in Norman.
Conclusion
While both Norman and Edmond provide a high quality of life in the Oklahoma City metro, Norman offers a lower overall cost of living. Renters and home buyers can expect to pay around 10-15% less in Norman, with the biggest savings on housing.
Young professionals and those who value newer homes and proximity to Oklahoma City may prefer Edmond despite the higher cost. Families looking for an affordable college town vibe will likely find Norman a better fit.
Carefully weigh your budget, lifestyle and commute to determine which city is right for you. Our Monthly Budget Examples for Norman Residents and Cost of Living in Norman (2025 Guide) provide additional insights for those considering a move to Norman.