Here are the Best Cities Near Oklahoma City To Settle Down In

Oklahoma City, also known as OKC, is a growing city that’s attracting a lot of people due to its affordable living, vibrant economy, and sense of community. Oklahoma City's job market is booming, with numerous opportunities in various sectors. Among the prominent industries that can be found in this area are healthcare, technology, and energy. It’s also easy to make connections in this area, and it’s a great place to relocate overall. However, instead of living directly in the city, consider living in one of the best cities near Oklahoma City if you want more affordable housing options, lower costs of living, better schools, and just as much entertainment as you would expect in the big city itself.

10 Best Cities Near Oklahoma City

The best cities near Oklahoma City allow you to enjoy a more tranquil lifestyle, but you’re still surrounded by plenty of entertainment, outdoor recreation, dining, shopping, and more. If you’re considering a move to OKC, one of these cities might just be the best bet for you and your family. 

Yukon puts on various events and festivals throughout the year, including concerts in the park.
(Source: The City of Yukon Oklahoma - Government via Facebook)

1. Yukon, OK

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,125
• Average home value: $261,900
• Great for: Families, young professionals, local events, outdoor recreation, schools
• Commute into Oklahoma City: 25-minute drive

The city of Yukon is one of the smallest cities near Oklahoma City, but it’s known as the "Festival Capital of Oklahoma" due to its various events and festivals. Some of these include the Christmas in the Park, the Chocolate Festival, and Concerts in the Park. It’s also a popular spot due to its proximity to Oklahoma City, which is just around 25 minutes away.

In addition to enjoying the local festivities of the city, there are a variety of outdoor activities that people can do in Yukon to stay active, such as fishing, hunting, and hiking. One of the city's most popular locations is Lake Overholser, which is known for its water sports and scenic views.

The local school district of Yukon — Yukon Public Schools — provides its students with a high-quality education, and Yukon High School is one of the top-rated schools that serves over 9,000 students annually.

2. Edmond, OK

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,200
• Average home value: $338,300
• Great for: Families, local events, outdoor recreation, schools
• Commute into Oklahoma City: 25-minute drive

The city of Edmond is considered one of the best cities near Oklahoma City for families, and residents of this charming city can benefit from having a short commute to work and having a peaceful, suburban lifestyle that’s fit for raising a family.

The city of Edmond has plenty of events and attractions that will keep everyone entertained, and residents love catching live music at the Jazz Lab, checking out local restaurants and shops, and participating in the yearly Arts Festival.

In addition to the downtown area, you can explore Arcadia Lake and the Spring Creek Trail. The city also has seven championship golf courses, including Oak Tree National, which was the site of the 2014 US Senior Open.

Although it's separate from the Edmond Public School system, the local Deer Creek Public School District is known for its high-quality educational standards and has been recognized by GreatSchools for helping students succeed in college.

3. Minco, OK

• Average rent (one-bedroom): N/A
• Average home value: $164,400
• Great for: Families, retirees, history, local events, recreation
• Commute into Oklahoma City: 45-minute drive

The last stop of the Oklahoma Railroad was in Minco, which led to the town becoming an epicenter of commerce during the 1800s. Today, the city is home to a tight-knit community where any walk of life can fit right in. 

The month of December is a special time for residents of Minco, due to the fact that the town's Chamber of Commerce hosts a yearly honey festival. This popular event features various activities such as a quilt show and tours of the Ross Honey Plant. Visitors can walk away with Oklahoma honey and other products made right here in the Sooner State.

The town's various facilities — including Bill Johnson Park and the Veteran's Memorial Gazebo — encourage residents to get moving. Baseball, softball, and football fields are also frequently used by the local youth leagues and the Minco School District.

Norman is full of charm and community, and is located just 30 minutes away from Oklahoma City.

4. Norman, OK

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,250
• Average home value: $248,200
• Great for: Young professionals, culture, music, sports, outdoor recreation
• Commute into Oklahoma City: 30-minute drive

Located in the heart of Oklahoma's and less than 20 miles away from Oklahoma City, Norman is one of the best towns near Oklahoma City that is full of charm and community.

It’s also considered one of the largest cities in Oklahoma. When local residents think of Norman, the first thing that typically comes to mind is the University of Oklahoma, which is known for its vibrant sports scene and academic heritage. Norman also has a wide variety of cultural activities and intellectual growth opportunities to match its sports heritage.

Music fans can enjoy listening to soulful songs at The Deli — Norman’s longest-running live music venue. And art lovers can visit one of the area's many art galleries, such as MAINSITE Contemporary Art. The Sam Noble Museum is also a must-visit for anyone fascinated by natural history.

In addition to its vibrant energy, Norman has over 60 parks and plenty of green spaces, making it the perfect city for nature lovers. You’ll never have a hard time finding a spot to have a picnic or take a morning walk.

5. Nichols Hills, OK

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $950
• Average home value: $910,700
• Great for: Families, retirees, tennis, golfing, shopping
• Commute into Oklahoma City: 15-minute drive

Nichol Hills is a city close to Oklahoma City that’s associated with upscale stores and restaurants. Needless to say, Nichols Hills is a popular choice among the area's wealthier residents. If you are looking for a place with luxe living and top-quality amenities, this suburb is the place for you. 

In Nichols Hills, tennis and golf are popular, and the Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club is also a part of the community where residents are invited to join through an invitation-only system.

For shopping, residents love heading to the Nichols Hills Plaza to explore its array of small, upscale boutiques and national chains, including Whole Foods, Lululemon, and Bebe’s.

6. Newcastle, OK

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $950
• Average home value: $291,400
• Great for: Families, retirees, tennis, golfing, shopping
• Commute into Oklahoma City: 25-minute drive

Newcastle is a flourishing community with a small-town feel and plenty of opportunities located in the southern portion of McClain County, near Oklahoma City and the Canadian River Valley. 

One of the best school systems in the area is the Newcastle Public School District, which consists of one high school, one middle school, and one elementary school. Its graduation rate is also on par with the state average. 

Newcastle is known for its vibrant urban setting and various attractions, including novelty shops and great restaurants. All of these together help make it one of the most-visited cities in the country. Take a stop at Flying Java Coffee to get a drink before venturing out and exploring the area's main shopping district. In 1951, the popular Luigi's Famiglia first started serving Italian food in a couple of locations throughout Oklahoma and eventually moved to other areas, such as Moore and Newcastle. Today it’s one of the most popular restaurants in Newcastle!

Mustang is a fast-growing community that’s located just over 15 miles southwest of the Oklahoma City metropolitan area.
(Source: City of Mustang via Facebook)

7. Mustang, OK

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,125
• Average home value: $268,300
• Great for: Families, young professionals, retirees, history, agriculture
• Commute into Oklahoma City: 25-minute drive

Mustang is a fast-growing community that’s located just over 15 miles southwest of the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. It’s ideal for families, working professionals, and retirees, and it has a unique history that includes the Oklahoma Land Run, which started in 1889 and coincided with the formation of this community.

The Mustang Historical Museum is a must-visit for anyone who is interested in learning more about the town's history and features various artifacts from the neighboring communities, as well as family heirlooms from the early settlers.

To preserve the town's agricultural history, residents and visitors can enjoy picking their own berries at one of the local farms, such as the Buffalo Creek Berry Farm or the Agape House Berry Farm. Farmers markets are also great places to support local businesses in Mustang.

8. Moore, OK

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,075
• Average home value: $212,800
• Great for: Families, outdoor recreation, agriculture, shopping, dining
• Commute into Oklahoma City: 15-minute drive

The city of Moore is one of the largest cities in the state. It’s situated just 11 miles away from the heart of Oklahoma City, and it’s not only easy to get around, but it also offers residents a close-knit community..

One of the most popular parks in Moore is Buck Thomas Park, which has a wide variety of facilities for people of all ages, including a playground, a sand volleyball court, a dog park, and picnic pavilions. Another popular area is Central Park, which recently got a major upgrade. This park features a variety of facilities, such as a swimming pool, a lazy river and a diving well.

Moore's Farmers Market is held every Thursday at Central Park, where you can find the freshest fruits and vegetables. The city also has plenty of restaurants and shopping establishments, and some of the most popular spots include Oliveto Italian Bistro and Hidalgo's Mexican restaurant.

9. Piedmont, OK

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $800
• Average home value: $328,400
• Great for: Families, job opportunities, outdoor recreation, local events
• Commute into Oklahoma City: 35-minute drive

Less than 30 miles from Oklahoma City's downtown area, the town of Piedmont offers a peaceful atmosphere with unmatched convenience. It also hosts major corporations, including Farmers Insurance and Paycom.

One of the most prominent facilities in the city is Piedmont Community Park, which is located off Piedmont Avenue, a couple of miles east of the high school. It features various areas for children, such as a sand volleyball court, basketball court, picnic areas, and a huge playground. The residents of Piedmont enjoy lots of events each year in this tight-knit community, including the Easter Eggstravaganza, the Freedom Fest, and the Christmas tree lighting.

The city of Blanchard was first established in 1907 and was developed into a strong community, great for families and young professionals.
(Source: Visit Blanchard / McClain County, OK via Facebook)

10. Blanchard, OK

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $550
• Average home value: $294,800
• Great for: Families, young professionals, dining, shopping, outdoor recreation, local events
• Commute into Oklahoma City: 40-minute drive

The city of Blanchard was first established in 1907 and was developed into a strong community by the traffic generated by the Oklahoma Central Railway. Its proximity to the other areas surrounding OKC helped it gain a reputation as a growing community, and today it is still full of appeal.

Blanchard’s Main Street is the center of the community, and it’s also home to the Shops at Blanchard Town Square. Children can play on the pirate ship play structure at Lion’s Park, which is a popular spot for residents due to its beautiful grass fields, picnic tables, and the location at the center of Blanchard. During the annual Bluegrass Festival, the park's lawn is full of folding chairs with plenty of fun to enjoy as well as live music. Main Street is also the site of all kinds of local events such as the annual Blanchard Veteran’s Days Parade.

Cities Near Oklahoma City — FAQs

Q: Which city is 30 minutes to Oklahoma City?
A: Mustang, Newcastle, Yukon, Edmond, and Norman are all cities on this list located approximately 30 minutes away from Oklahoma City.

Q: Which state is close to Oklahoma?
A: Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Missouri, and Arkansas are some of the states on the border of Oklahoma.

Q: What are the 3 most popular cities in Oklahoma?
A: Oklahoma City, Norman, and Edmond are some of the most popular cities in Oklahoma. 

Let PODS Help You Move to One of These Cities Near OKC

If you’re considering a move to the OKC area, you can rely on the best cities near Oklahoma City for more affordability, lower crime rates, and some much-needed seclusion away from all the chaos that goes on directly in the city. Whether you prefer upscale shopping and dining or a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of outdoor recreation available for the whole family, there’s a community for everyone. And the abundance of local events and festivals make it easy to get to know the people around and make some new connections. 

All that to say, deciding to move to Oklahoma City may not be a difficult decision to make, but figuring out the moving process is where the headache usually starts. With a PODS portable moving and storage container delivered right to your driveway, you can pack and load your belongings at your own pace. PODS can also refer you to local packing and loading help, if the heavy lifting is an issue. When you’re ready, the container will be picked up and delivered to your new Oklahoma location. And the best part? One month of storage is included with each rental.

Editor’s note: Average rent prices were obtained from RentCafe and Zumper; average home values were obtained from Zillow. For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.

(Source for image featured at top: Visit Blanchard / McClain County, OK via Facebook)