10 Best Places To Call Home In Oklahoma In 2025
Imagine a place where you can buy a house and live comfortably without breaking the bank; a place where outdoor activities and the beautiful scenery is plentiful; where community is more than a word, it is a way of life. All these things and more are achievable in these ten affordable towns in Oklahoma. Known for its diverse landscape and being home to the largest population of Native Americans in the United States, Oklahoma has a rich history and unique characteristics that make it a great place to live. There are over 200 man-made lakes, 34 major reservoirs, parts of four mountain ranges, and among all the states, Oklahoma has the most miles of shoreline. Being the 20th largest state, Oklahoma covers approximately 69,903 square miles, with many things to see and do.
Ardmore
With a population of approximately 25,000 and a land area of 49.9 square miles, Ardmore, Oklahoma, is becoming an increasingly popular place to live. With a median house price being 64% lower than the national average, it is a great and affordable place to set down roots. Living in Ardmore will feel like a lifelong vacation, with many things to do for adults, children, and retirees. Spend the weekend at Lake Murray State Park, where you can go camping, fishing, swimming, and participate in other water activities while relaxing and soaking up the sun at this clear, beautiful 5,700-acre lake. Tucker Tower is also a popular location that sits on a cliff overlooking Lake Murray, providing an amazing view of the surrounding landscape. The tower also presents as a museum and can be accessed through the Lake Murray Nature Center, which offers educational programs throughout the summer. Multiple celebrations occur throughout the year, which include Admore Parade of Lights, the Oklahoma Pecan Fair, and the Carter County Free Fair. All these activities await you at Admore, Oklahoma, making it a fantastic place to call home.
McAlester
Known for its historical significance as a regional hub, McAlester is home to approximately 18,140 people. With the median house price well below the national average, McAlester is a place that provides security and comfort. Spend your days exploring all that McAlester has to offer, such as the Choctaw Casino and McAlester’s OKLA Theatre, where you can watch the latest movies in a historical theatre. Popular locations among residents are community and neighbourhood parks. Located in the heart of McAlester is Chadick Park, a 10.2-acre park that features a basketball court, horseshoe and cornhole pits, picnic pavilions, a gazebo, a splash pad, a wading pool, and four tennis courts. Another popular spot to spend time outdoors is William P. Mullen Park, a 12.7-acre community park where you can get lost in a fun labyrinth or show your moves on the tennis court and finish with a beautiful picnic and a long stroll along the ¾ mile walking path.
Noble
Located in Cleveland County, Oklahoma, Noble has a population of approximately 6,985. This number is continuing to rise as more people discover the magic of Noble. The third-largest city in Cleveland County, Noble, is known as the rose rock capital of the world. The median house price in Noble, Oklahoma is substantially less than both nearby cities and the national average. North of the University of Oklahoma campus is the historical campus corner district, a commercial area with over 75 stores, offering plenty of shops and restaurants. Residents can spend their time at the Riley Park and Noble Splash Pad, where keeping cool in the sun is enjoyed by many. Sit back and enjoy a rich glass of wine at Native Spirits Winery in nearby Norman, or tickle your funny bone at OKC Improv. Being in close proximity to Norman, residents have a wealth of access to attractions and activities both inside and outside of Noble.
Alva
Located along the Salt Fork Arkansas River, Alva, Oklahoma, is the main campus of Oklahoma State University. With a population of only around 5,028, this laid-back town provides a quiet and quaint lifestyle if needed, or those who are interested in being involved and entertained can participate in the many activities Alva has to offer. A 30-minute drive will provide further recreational opportunities at Salt Plains State Park and Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge, where you can go fishing, kayaking, and take a wildlife excursion to Alabaster Cavern and State Park. If you are feeling adventurous, Little Sahara State Park has over 1,600 acres of sand dunes where you can rent or bring your own ATV or dune buggy and experience the thrill of off roading. Get lost in Oklahoma’s largest hay maze at Bradt’s Menagerie and Petting Zoo, play laser tag, and meet the many adorable animals.
Altus
Altus, Oklahoma, located in Jackson County, is known for its Air Force Base. However, there are many other things that make Altus stand out as a great place to live. The median home price in Altus is substantially less than the national average, as well as lower than many cities in the United States. With a population of around 18,729, Altus, Oklahoma, is continuing to grow as a medical and economic hub. There are various activities for people of all ages, from skating at Skate Place, bowling at Town and Country Lanes, to playing golf at the Greens of Altus, an 18-hole golf course that holds tournaments throughout the year. A major recreation spot, Lake Altus-Lugert offers various activities, such as swimming, camping, and fishing. There are also several parks to explore, which include Indian Hills Park, Quartz Mountain State Park, and Imagination Station. If history is something you enjoy, make sure to visit the Museum of Western Prairie, where you can learn about the story of Southwest Oklahoma and trace the economic development through both audio and visual collections.
Muskogee
Located on the Arkansas River, Muskogee is the perfect place to live for those who enjoy nature and history. Never a dull moment, there is something for everyone in Muskogee. There are several museums, which include the Five Civilized Tribes Museum, Muskogee War Memorial Park, Atoloa Lodge Museum, and the Three Rivers Museum, each with its unique collection. Spend the day shopping at the Olde American Antique Mall, with over 90 vendors, there is a wide array of merchandise, making it perfect for those looking for a one-in-a-million item. Get out and enjoy nature by visiting Honor Heights Park, a 132-acre park where you can hike the trails, picnic, and visit the arboretum, which sits on a beautiful lake surrounded by various species of plants and trees. Throughout the year, you can attend one of the many events held, such as the Oklahoma Renaissance Festival or the annual Muscogee National Festival. In the end, it may be easier to say what Muskogee does not have rather than what it does, as the list of activities and events is diverse and plentiful.
Okmulgee
Located in the Tulsa metropolitan area, Okmulgee, Oklahoma, is a beautiful town, surrounded by stunning scenery that provides plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Honored as the capital of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Okmulgee has several lakes, hiking trails, and even a wildlife refuge. Deep Fork National Wildlife Refuge, located near Okmulgee, is habitat for a variety of fish, birds, amphibians, mammals, and reptiles. With 149 different species of birds, at each visit, you are likely to see something amazing. Spend the afternoon boating on Dripping Springs Lake, which provides a great spot for fishing for trophy bass. Camp out on the beautiful, clear lake, go swimming, and hike along the Oak Leaf Nature Trail. The downtown district is another great place to visit, being recognized as one of the five Great American Main Streets in the country in 2002.
Tahlequah
Tahlequah, Oklahoma, with a population of approximately 16,633, is a historical mecca and home to Northeastern State University. The town of Tahlequah provides many opportunities to delve into the Cherokee past and the formation of the town. Visit the Cherokee National History Museum, which tells the Cherokee people’s story through immersive exhibits and augmented reality. Other significant locations include the Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum and the Cherokee National Research Center, which has thousands of Cherokee archives and artifacts. Take the Tahlequah History Trail and experience the beauty of nature while learning about the history of the town. For an entertaining night out, visit the Cherokee Casino Tahlequah, which features golf, fine dining, and live entertainment.
Shawnee
Shawnee is another great location in Oklahoma that provides housing well below the national average and with a gradual increase in population, it is clear many are realizing the opportunities that await. Shawnee, Oklahoma, stands out for its entertainment, where you can beat the heat at the Shawnee Splash Water Park, a large outdoor pool open from May to August that also has a climbing wall, slides, and a spray ground area. If you want a fun place to take the family, then look no further than Kids Space Park, a top-five largest premier park. Shawnee is also home to one of the oldest museums in Oklahoma, the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art, which has over 8,000 years of culture and art worldwide.
Anadarko
Fifty miles southwest of Oklahoma City sits Anadarko, located along the south bank of the Washita River. This town of approximately 5,745 people has extremely affordable housing that is significantly below the median housing price. The many cultural attractions draw in visitors and keep many residents entertained. With its rich Native American history, it is no surprise that Anadarko has a variety of historical locations and tribal museums. In particular, there is the National Hall of Fame for Famous Indians and the Southern Plains Indian Museum, which shows the arts of Western Oklahoma Tribal peoples. Several city parks are located throughout Anadarko, which include pavilions, splash pads, and a basketball court. A well-known and visited location is Lake Chickasha, a hub for various water recreation activities, where guests can hike the trails, camp out for the night, and go fishing just 17 miles from Anadarko.
With the rising rates of housing, the small towns listed above offer a great opportunity for those seeking comfort and affordability. The numerous activities that each location has to offer are diverse, and while many have been discussed, there is plenty more to do in Oklahoma. With over 50 songs written about Oklahoma, it is clear there is something special about the state, and once you visit, it will be evident that it is a great place to call home.
