Oklahoma City Ranks as the Top Big City to Live in the U.S.

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Oklahoma City has been named the best large city to live in across the United States, according to a new ranking by U.S. News & World Report. The honor comes after a series of lists had previously placed the city near the bottom in other categories, making this national recognition a notable turnaround.

The real estate-focused report evaluated more than 850 cities based on several key factors, including affordability, job market strength, quality of life, and overall desirability. Oklahoma City stood out for its low cost of living, particularly in housing, which averages nearly $140,000 less than the national median. This economic advantage, combined with the city’s strong sense of cultural identity rooted in Western heritage, positioned it above other major metropolitan areas.

Beyond its rich history, U.S. News & World Report credited the city’s recent progress in infrastructure and development projects for its high score. In a statement, the publication noted, “That mix of low housing costs, cultural richness and wide-open space makes Oklahoma City the perfect choice for those looking to stretch their budget without sacrificing quality of life.”

The report also highlighted other communities in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. Edmond and Moore were both ranked in the top 50 best cities to live in across the nation, with Edmond placing 22nd and Moore 42nd. Notably, both suburbs outperformed Oklahoma City on the site’s ten-point scoring system. Edmond scored a 6.8, Moore earned a 6.6, and Oklahoma City followed with a 6.2. Thanks to its strong overall performance, Edmond also secured the #14 spot on the list of best small cities in the country.

The analysis by U.S. News & World Report offers a clear reflection of the growing appeal of many Southern and Midwestern cities, particularly for families and individuals seeking more value and stability without compromising on lifestyle.