Relocation Guide

Moving to Oklahoma: What to Know Before You Relocate

From cost of living to severe weather and the best places to settle, here's what our Talihina-based crew tells every family thinking about moving to Oklahoma.

Why people are moving to Oklahoma

Oklahoma has quietly become one of the most affordable states in the country to start over. The cost of living sits roughly 14% below the national average, housing is a fraction of coastal prices, and the state has no income tax on Social Security benefits. Job growth in energy, aerospace, healthcare, and logistics — concentrated around Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and Fort Smith just over the Arkansas line — has pulled in transplants from Texas, California, and the Midwest.

Cost of living

• Housing: Median home prices in much of eastern Oklahoma stay well under $250k.
• Utilities & gas: Among the lowest in the U.S.
• Groceries: Roughly 5–8% below national average.
• Taxes: State income tax tops out around 4.75%; no tax on Social Security.

Weather you should plan for

Summers are hot — expect long stretches in the 90s with high humidity in the east. Winters are mild but can deliver surprise ice storms. Tornado season runs April through June; most homes (and rentals) have storm shelters or safe rooms. If you're moving in summer, schedule loading early in the morning.

Regions at a glance

• Tulsa metro: Arts, music, growing tech scene, walkable downtown.
• Oklahoma City metro: Largest job market, strong suburbs like Edmond and Norman.
• Eastern Oklahoma / Ouachitas: Talihina, Broken Bow, Poteau — mountain views, fishing, cabins.
• Northwest: Wide-open plains, ranching, low cost of land.

Tips from a local moving crew

• Book your mover 4–6 weeks ahead for May–August moves.
• Label boxes by room and priority — "open first" saves a day.
• Bring contact info for a local agent or utility company before move day.
• If you're coming in from Dallas, Fort Smith, or Tulsa, ask about flat-rate door-to-door pricing.