Perhaps this is why Oklahoma City is the best place to conduct market research
Oklahoma City is proving itself to be an outstanding place to live—and several recent studies affirm why it stands out. According to the U.S. News & World Report, OKC was ranked #1 among "Best Big Cities to Live" for 2025–26. Out of 859 cities evaluated, it earned top billing among metros with populations over 499,000, excelling in affordability, ob market strength, quality of life, and overall desirability (Velo City).
This impressive ranking isn’t a fluke. A deeper dive by U.S. News shows Oklahoma City sitting at #16 overall in the national Best Places to Live ranking, and scoring very high in housing value, quality of life, and job opportunities (U.S. News Real Estate and The Oklahoma 100). With a median home price under $200,000, rent around $1,175/month, and plenty of sunshine, green spaces, and cultural attractions, it’s easy to see why OKC is capturing attention.
Beyond being a great place to live, Oklahoma City is also one of the best‑run large cities in America. According to WalletHub’s2023 “Best-Run Cities in America” study, it ranked #11 overall, and remains in the top tier for effective city operations (Greater Oklahoma City). More recent analysis shows strong performance in city services and budget use—it placed 62nd in quality of city services and 9th in budget per resident, reinforcing its reputation for operational efficiency (Yahoo). And WalletHub’s 2025 "efficiency and services analysis" further confirmed OKC’s merit with a 12th‑place national finish, reflecting its continued municipal strength.
But Oklahoma City’s appeal reaches beyond governance and real estate—it’s also a standout for retirees. Insider Monkey rated Oklahoma City among the best places in the state for a couple to live on only Social Security, thanks to its low cost of living, stable rental market, and affordable amenities (Yahoo Finance). With median rent hovering around $1,350 and an overall livability score near 81, the city offers a viable retirement option without compromising quality of life.
When you add it all up, Oklahoma City checks all the right boxes:
- Affordability: Housing costs well below national average, plentiful rental options.
- Opportunity: A thriving job market, diversified economy, and plenty of sunshine.
- Good Governance: High marks for fiscal responsibility and quality public services.
- Retiree‑friendly: Wallet for Social Security stretches further here than in many places.
Combine that with OKC’s vibrant cultural scene—from the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum to festivals like Festival of the Arts—and it’s a city on the rise. Whether you’re just starting out, raising a family, or enjoying retirement, Oklahoma City offers a unique blend of value, opportunity, and effective city management. Clearly, both statistics and real residents agree—Oklahoma City is the place to be.