Housing Costs in Oklahoma City
Housing options in Oklahoma City range from affordable apartments to spacious single-family homes. Renters can expect to pay around $1,100-$1,400 per month for a typical 2-bedroom apartment, while the median price for a 3-bedroom house is approximately $225,000-$275,000 as of 2025.
Costs and housing types vary significantly by neighborhood. Some key differences include:
- Downtown: Higher-end apartments and condos, $1,500-$2,500/month rent
- Edmond: Family-friendly suburb, median home price $350,000
- Moore: Affordable homes under $200,000, some newer developments
- Midtown: Mix of historic and new apartments, $1,200-$1,800/month rent
About 30% of neighborhoods have Homeowners Associations (HOAs), which can add $200-$400 per month in fees. However, many communities do not require HOA membership.
Utility Costs in Oklahoma City
Utility costs in Oklahoma City are relatively affordable compared to the national average. Residents can expect to pay around $150-$250 per month for electricity, with higher costs in the peak of summer due to air conditioning. Natural gas averages $50-$80 monthly, while water and trash services typically total $60-$100 per month.
| Utility | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $150-$250 |
| Natural Gas | $50-$80 |
| Water + Trash | $60-$100 |
Groceries and Food Costs
The average grocery bill for a single person in Oklahoma City is around $300-$400 per month, while a family of four may spend closer to $800-$1,000. This assumes a mix of cooking at home and dining out occasionally.
To put this in perspective, here are some typical local prices:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $2.75
- Dozen eggs: $2.25
- Fast food meal: $8-$12
- Restaurant dinner for two: $40-$70
Taxes and Additional Expenses
Oklahoma City’s property tax rate is around 1.2% of assessed home value, which equates to $2,400 per year on a $200,000 house. The combined sales tax rate is 8.625%, which includes both city and state taxes.
Vehicle owners should budget for registration fees ($100-$200 per year) and personal property tax on cars, which varies based on vehicle value. For a $25,000 car, annual taxes may be around $250.
| Fee Type | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Property Tax (1.2% on $200K home) | $2,400 |
| Vehicle Registration | $100-$200 per vehicle |
| Car Property Tax ($25K vehicle) | $250 |
Monthly Cost of Living in Oklahoma City
To live comfortably in Oklahoma City, here are some estimated monthly pre-tax income requirements:
| Household | Estimated Monthly Income |
|---|---|
| Single person | $3,000-$3,500 |
| Couple | $4,000-$4,500 |
| Family of four | $5,500-$6,500 |
These figures assume a mix of renting/owning, cooking/dining out, and having some disposable income. Frugal budgeters may be able to live on less, while those seeking more luxuries should plan for higher monthly costs.
Lifestyle Factors to Consider
When choosing where to live in Oklahoma City, it’s important to weigh factors like commute times, school districts, and access to amenities. Neighborhoods like Edmond and Norman offer highly-rated schools and safe communities, but come with longer commutes and higher housing costs.
More affordable areas like Del City or Warr Acres provide lower housing costs, but may have older homes or fewer community features. Ultimately, residents must balance their budget with their desired lifestyle when selecting a neighborhood.
Oklahoma City offers a range of public parks, sports facilities, and community centers for residents to enjoy. However, access to these amenities, as well as shopping and dining options, can vary significantly between urban and suburban areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What salary do you need to live comfortably in Oklahoma City?
For a single person, a gross monthly income of $3,000-$3,500 is generally sufficient for a comfortable lifestyle. Couples may need $4,000-$4,500 per month, while families should budget $5,500-$6,500 or more. - Is Oklahoma City less expensive than Tulsa?
Yes, the cost of living in Oklahoma City is about 5-10% lower than in Tulsa. Housing costs are the primary difference, with Tulsa’s median home price and rent both slightly higher than Oklahoma City. - Are utilities expensive in Oklahoma City?
No, utility costs in Oklahoma City are quite affordable relative to other U.S. metros. The average resident pays $250-$400 per month for electricity, gas, water and trash service.
- How much is sales tax in Oklahoma City?
The total sales tax rate in Oklahoma City is 8.625%, which includes a 4.5% state tax and 4.125% city tax. This applies to most goods purchased in the city limits. - What are the most affordable neighborhoods in Oklahoma City?
Some of the lowest-cost areas include Warr Acres, Del City, and Midwest City. These neighborhoods offer homes under $150,000 and rents averaging $800-$1,000 per month. - How much does it cost to buy a home in Oklahoma City?
As of 2025, the median price for a single-family home is around $250,000. However, this varies widely by neighborhood, with prices ranging from under $150,000 to over $500,000 for luxury properties.