Bethany is considered moderately affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,450 and slightly lower grocery costs compared to the national average.
For those considering a move to Bethany, Oklahoma in 2025, it’s essential to understand the true cost of living. While Bethany offers a suburban lifestyle with easy access to Oklahoma City, budgeting for monthly expenses is key to living comfortably. Let’s break down what you can expect to pay across major categories like housing, utilities, groceries, and more.
Housing Costs in Bethany
Housing is typically the biggest expense in any monthly budget. In Bethany, you’ll find a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes. For renters, a basic 2-bedroom apartment averages around $1,450 per month. Prices can range from $1,200 for older units up to $1,800 for newer luxury apartments.
If you’re looking to purchase a home, expect to pay between $250,000 to $400,000 for a 3-bedroom house, depending on the neighborhood, age, and amenities. Some popular residential areas include:
- Bethany Heights: Established neighborhood with homes averaging $300,000
- Brownsville: Newer development with prices starting around $350,000
- Old Bethany: Mix of older homes and new construction, averaging $280,000
Keep in mind that some neighborhoods have Homeowners Association (HOA) fees, which can add $200 to $400 per month to your housing costs. Always factor this in when budgeting for a home purchase.
Utility and Energy Bills
Utility costs in Bethany are generally in line with the national average. For a 2-bedroom apartment, budget around $150 to $200 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash combined. Larger homes may see higher bills, especially in summer months when air conditioning is a must.
| Utility | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $80 – $120 |
| Gas | $30 – $50 |
| Water + Trash | $40 – $60 |
High-speed internet and cable packages start around $70 per month for basic plans. Upgrading to faster speeds or premium channels can easily double that cost.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Bethany residents benefit from slightly lower grocery costs compared to the national average. Expect to spend around $300 to $400 per person per month on groceries and household essentials. This assumes a mix of cooking at home and occasional dining out.
To give you an idea, here’s what a typical grocery basket might cost:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $2.25
- Dozen eggs: $2.00
- Pound of chicken breast: $3.50
Dining out can add up quickly. A meal at a casual restaurant averages $12 to $18 per person, while fast food combo meals are around $8. If you eat out a few times a week, budget at least $200 to $300 per person monthly.
Taxes and Fees
Oklahoma has a relatively low tax burden compared to other states. The property tax rate in Bethany is around 0.88%, meaning you’ll pay $2,200 annually on a $250,000 home.
Sales tax in Bethany is 8.5%, which includes the 4.5% state rate plus a 4% local tax. This applies to most goods and services, including dining out and some groceries.
Vehicle registration fees are $85 per year on average, plus a one-time excise tax of 3.25% when you purchase a car. Drivers should also budget for car insurance, which averages $120 to $150 monthly.
Monthly Budget Summary
So what does this all mean for your monthly budget? Here’s a quick summary of potential costs for different household sizes, based on average expenses in Bethany:
| Expense | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (rent) | $1,000 | $1,450 | $1,800 |
| Utilities | $150 | $200 | $300 |
| Groceries | $350 | $700 | $1,200 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $500 |
| Healthcare | $300 | $600 | $1,000 |
| Total | $2,000 | $3,250 | $4,800 |
Keep in mind these are estimates based on a modest lifestyle. You’ll need to adjust based on your unique needs and spending habits. Most financial experts recommend aiming for a gross monthly income (pre-tax) of at least 3 times your baseline expenses. So a single person may need around $6,000 per month to live comfortably, while a family of 4 should aim for $14,400 monthly.
Lifestyle Considerations
Of course, the cost of living is just one factor when deciding where to live. Bethany offers a quiet suburban lifestyle with good schools, parks, and a quaint downtown area. Commute times into Oklahoma City average 20 to 30 minutes.
While you may pay a bit more for housing compared to some rural areas, Bethany provides a nice balance of affordability and convenience. Residents have easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment in the OKC metro.
Newer homes and luxury apartments come at a premium, but you can find more budget-friendly options in established neighborhoods. Older homes may need some updating, but often provide more space for the money.
Ultimately, your lifestyle priorities will shape how far your budget stretches. Downsizing to a smaller home or living further out may offer more financial breathing room. Alternatively, paying a bit more to be close to work and amenities can be worth it for some.
Frequently Asked Questions
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Bethany?
Aim for a gross monthly income at least 3 times your estimated expenses. For a single person, that’s around $6,000 per month. Couples should target $9,750 monthly, and families of 4 need roughly $14,400.
Is Bethany cheaper than living in Oklahoma City?
Bethany tends to be slightly less expensive than neighborhoods in the heart of OKC. You can expect to pay 10% to 20% less for housing while still being close to the city.
Are utilities expensive in Bethany?
Utility costs in Bethany are fairly typical for the region. Budget $150 to $300 per month for an apartment or small home, and $200 to $400 for larger houses.
How much is the average rent in Bethany?
As of 2025, a basic 2-bedroom apartment rents for around $1,450 per month. Prices range from $1,200 for older units up to $1,800 for luxury apartments.
What are the best neighborhoods in Bethany for families?
Brownsville and Bethany Heights are popular picks for families, offering newer homes and good schools. Old Bethany provides a mix of housing with a quaint, walkable vibe.
How much should I budget for groceries in Bethany?
Plan on $300 to $400 per person monthly for groceries and household basics. This assumes a mix of cooking at home and dining out a few times a week.
What are the income tax rates in Bethany?
Oklahoma has a progressive income tax topping out at 5% for the highest earners. Most Bethany residents fall into the 4% to 5% bracket.
How can I reduce my living expenses in Bethany?
Look for housing in older neighborhoods, consider downsizing, or compare moving company costs and options to secure the best deal. Cook at home more often and take advantage of free community events for entertainment.