Oklahoma, also referred to as the Sooner State, affords a singular mix of small-town appeal and a various expertise for its residents. It’s recognized for its wealthy Native American historical past and tradition, with 38 tribal nations and numerous historic websites and museums. Oklahoma boasts a wealth of pure magnificence and scenic landscapes, and whereas there are lots of causes to stay there, it does have its drawbacks. So whether you’re trying to find properties on the market in Oklahoma Metropolis, an condo in Tulsa, or questioning if Oklahoma is an efficient place to stay, learn on for ten professionals and cons of dwelling in Oklahoma earlier than calling this state dwelling.
Execs of dwelling in Oklahoma
1. BBQ lovers will thrive right here
Oklahoma is legendary for its BBQ tradition, with many BBQ joints and competitions all through the state. The “Oklahoma-style” BBQ, which mixes Texan and Kansas Metropolis-style BBQ is especially famend. It sometimes options smoked meats akin to beef brisket, pork, and sausage served with a tomato-based sauce. Oklahoma can also be dwelling to many BBQ festivals and occasions, together with the annual Oklahoma Pork and Barbecue Competition, which attracts hundreds of tourists yearly.
2. Oklahoma is thought to be an reasonably priced state
The state has a median dwelling sale value of $227,000, which is decrease than the nationwide common of $388,472. The general price of dwelling, together with transportation, healthcare, and different important bills, can also be usually decrease than in different elements of the nation. When you’re trying to find properties on the market, try cities like Oklahoma Metropolis, which has a median sale value of $242,000, or Norman, the place the median sale value is $249,000. Together with shopping for, renting is reasonably priced all through the state. In bigger cities like Tulsa, a two-bedroom condo averages round $1,053.
3. The Sooner State has wealthy historical past
Formed by the numerous teams of people that have referred to as the state dwelling over the centuries, Oklahoma’s cultural historical past is numerous and complicated. The Sooner State turned the brand new dwelling to numerous indigenous tribes within the nineteenth century, and was additionally a sought-after vacation spot for settlers through the late 1800s and early 1900s. You can even discover a thriving African American tradition within the northeastern area with wealthy music, delicacies, and cultural historical past. To be taught extra in regards to the state’s previous, think about the Oklahoma Metropolis Nationwide Memorial and Museum or the Nationwide Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.
4. Oklahoma has a vibrant arts scene
Oklahoma has a thriving arts scene that encompasses a wide range of kinds and types, from conventional Native American and Western artwork to up to date works by native artists. The state is dwelling to quite a few museums, galleries, and cultural facilities, in addition to efficiency areas for theater, dance, and music. A few of the most notable arts establishments in Oklahoma embody the Oklahoma Metropolis Museum of Artwork and the Philbrook Museum of Artwork in Tulsa. Wealthy traditions of Native American artwork and tradition are deeply rooted and extensively distinguished. The state has a big Native American inhabitants, and the humanities scene displays this numerous cultural heritage via conventional pottery, weaving, beadwork, and different types of Native American artwork.
5. There’s a variety of leisure actions
Oklahoma affords its residents glorious leisure alternatives for any adventurer. The Sooner State is dwelling to a number of state parks, akin to Beavers Bend State Park and Pure Falls State Park, which supply mountaineering, tenting, fishing, and boating alternatives. Lake Texoma and Grand Lake are well-liked locations for boating and fishing. There are additionally many golf programs and alternatives for searching, horseback driving, and mountaineering. Irrespective of the place you might be within the state, you’ll discover an exercise you get pleasure from.
Cons of dwelling in Oklahoma
1. Some areas have weak infrastructure
The infrastructure in Oklahoma will be described as having some challenges, significantly in budgeting and funding for its infrastructure. Because of this, many infrastructure initiatives, akin to repairs to bridges and roadways, might not be accomplished in a well timed method. This could result in points akin to potholes and uneven surfaces on the roads, which might doubtlessly trigger harm to autos.
2. Susceptible to pure disasters
Oklahoma is thought for its extreme climate, significantly tornadoes. The state is positioned in an space often known as Twister Alley, which incorporates elements of Texas, Kansas, and Nebraska. This area experiences many tornadoes because of the mixture of heat, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico and funky, dry air from the Rocky Mountains. Residents additionally expertise extreme thunderstorms, hail, and flash flooding. It’s important for residents to be ready for extreme climate and to create an emergency evacuation plan.
3. You’ll need a automotive to get round
Dwelling within the Sooner State can current challenges for these counting on public transportation. There are restricted public transportation choices, with most cities and cities relying totally on bus programs which will have restricted schedules and routes. Moreover, many rural areas in Oklahoma haven’t any public transportation choices, making it tough for residents to entry important companies and sources. This lack of public transportation can create boundaries for these with out entry to a automotive. Nonetheless, in recent times, Oklahoma has made efforts to enhance public transportation choices, together with increasing bus routes, partnering with ride-sharing corporations, and implementing bike-share packages in some areas.
4. Massive metropolis life is missing
Oklahoma has a sparse inhabitants density compared to different states within the U.S., resulting in the absence of main metropolitan areas. The state’s largest metropolis, Oklahoma Metropolis, has a inhabitants of about 700,000, which is comparatively small in comparison with different main cities within the nation like Los Angeles or New York Metropolis. This could result in fewer job alternatives, fewer locations of cultural curiosity, and a scarcity of nightlife in some areas of the state. Dwelling in Oklahoma generally is a problem for these in search of an city life-style and extra entry to facilities and sources because of the lack of huge cities.
5. The summers can get sizzling and muggy
Oklahoma summers are sometimes heat to sizzling, starting from the excessive 80s to low 90s levels Fahrenheit. The state experiences excessive humidity, making the air really feel oppressive and growing the warmth index. It’s also liable to drought, affecting crops and water sources. You’ll need to put together your own home for drought to guard your property in the summertime months.
The professionals and cons of dwelling in Oklahoma: Backside line
It’s necessary to contemplate all the professionals and cons of dwelling in Oklahoma earlier than making a transfer. Whereas the state affords a singular mixture of pure magnificence, outside actions, and southern appeal, it additionally has its set of challenges. Make sure to weigh all of the elements earlier than making a call.
