Norman, OK vs. Oklahoma City, OK: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Comparing the cost of living between Norman and Oklahoma City? Here’s a quick overview:
- Housing costs 12% less in Norman
- Utilities run about 5% cheaper in Oklahoma City
- Groceries and daily expenses are neck-and-neck
- Taxes and fees favor Norman by 3%
This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison: Norman vs Oklahoma City. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Norman vs Oklahoma City in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Here’s how typical housing costs compare between the two cities:
| Housing Type | Norman | Oklahoma City |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $950 | $1,100 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $235,000 | $260,000 |
🏆 Winner: Norman. Housing costs come in about 12% lower in Norman compared to Oklahoma City.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Expect monthly utility bills to run:
- $180-$220 in Norman
- $170-$210 in Oklahoma City
Both cities experience hot summers and mild winters. Oklahoma City edges out Norman with slightly lower energy rates.
🏆 Winner: Oklahoma City, but just barely. Utility costs are about 5% lower.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs and everyday expenses like gas and dining out are very similar between Norman and Oklahoma City. Expect to pay:
- $3.50 for a gallon of milk in both cities
- $2.80 per gallon of gas on average
- $12-15 for a basic restaurant meal
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are nearly identical in Norman and OKC.
4. Taxes and Fees
Property taxes in Norman average 0.92%, while Oklahoma City comes in slightly higher at 0.95%. Most neighborhoods in both cities have HOA fees ranging from $30-100/month, though some luxury communities may charge more.
In Norman, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash pickup. Oklahoma City fees more commonly cover amenities like pools and fitness centers.
🏆 Winner: Norman. The combination of lower property taxes and HOA fees gives Norman a slight edge.
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Norman | Oklahoma City |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $950 | $1,100 |
| Utilities | $200 | $190 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $60 | $60 |
| Taxes and Fees | $180 | $200 |
| Misc Expenses | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,040 | $2,200 |
Note: All income figures are expressed as gross monthly income (pre-tax).
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Norman offers lower housing costs, Oklahoma City provides more urban amenities, public transportation, and a shorter average commute. Other key differences:
- Oklahoma City averages 1.5″ more rain per year than Norman.
- Norman offers a quieter, small-town feel. OKC is a busier metro environment.
7. FAQ
Is Norman more affordable than Oklahoma City?
Yes, the cost of living in Norman is about 8% lower overall compared to Oklahoma City, mainly due to cheaper housing.
Which city has lower rent?
Rent prices are around 12% lower in Norman vs Oklahoma City. A typical 2BR apartment runs $950/month in Norman compared to $1,100 in OKC.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Norman offers lower home prices as well. The median price for a 3BR house is $235,000 in Norman vs $260,000 in Oklahoma City.
8. Conclusion
While both cities provide an affordable cost of living, Norman comes out ahead for most budgets. The lower housing costs make it ideal for:
- Families looking to stretch their budget
- Retirees seeking to downsize
- Students and young professionals
However, Oklahoma City can be a great fit if you prefer a more urban lifestyle with added amenities. To dive deeper, check out our Monthly Budget Examples for Norman Residents and Cost of Living in Norman (2025 Guide).