Thinking about moving to Tulsa, Oklahoma? You’re not alone. Tulsa has quietly become one of the most talked-about relocation spots in the Midwest — a place where affordability, culture, and community collide. But is it the right fit for you?

After living in Tulsa for 35 years and helping countless families relocate here, I’m giving you a clear, no-fluff breakdown: five pros, five cons, and a few surprises you need to know before you pack your bags.

The Pros of Living in Tulsa, Oklahoma

🩵 1. Affordable Housing and Cost of Living

Tulsa’s biggest draw is its affordable housing market. While the national average home price keeps climbing, Tulsa’s average sits around $286,000 in the city and $305,000 in Tulsa County. That means you can find a spacious, move-in ready home for what might only buy you a condo in California or Texas.

Even better? If you’re selling in a high-cost market like Colorado, Dallas, or California, you may be able to purchase in Tulsa with cash — unlocking gorgeous homes in the $500K–$1M+ range at a fraction of what you’d spend elsewhere.

🩵 2. A Thriving Arts & Culture Scene

Forget the tumbleweed stereotypes. Tulsa was once the oil capital of the world, and that legacy brought East and West Coast influence that shaped the city’s architecture and culture.

Today, you’ll find one of the largest collections of Art Deco architecture in the country, plus a vibrant downtown scene filled with music, art, and entertainment. Highlights include:

1. First Friday Art Crawl in the Tulsa Arts District
2. The BOK Center, Cain’s Ballroom, and Philbrook Museum
3. Annual festivals like Mayfest, Oktoberfest, and Tulsa Tough

Many newcomers say Tulsa feels like Nashville before it exploded — cool, authentic, and full of energy.

🩵 3. Food, Coffee & Breweries Galore

Tulsa’s food scene is booming. Yes, we have all the national chains, but the real gems are our local restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops. From farm-to-table dining to craft breweries popping up downtown, Tulsa chefs and restaurateurs bring serious talent to the table.

As a self-proclaimed foodie and frequent traveler, I can tell you — Tulsa’s culinary game can hold its own against big coastal cities.

🩵 4. Slower Pace, No-Hustle Lifestyle

If you’re burned out on city traffic and endless commutes, Tulsa will feel like a breath of fresh air. Most commutes are 15–20 minutes, even from the suburbs. The culture here is friendlier, more relaxed, and less rushed — people actually take the time to connect.

🩵 5. Tight-Knit Community & Outdoor Spaces

Tulsa is big enough to offer opportunity (population around 400,000, with 1 million in the metro) but small enough to feel connected. People wave, smile, and strike up conversations at the grocery store. It’s the kind of place where “if you don’t know someone, you know someone who knows them.”

And the outdoor scene is unbeatable:

1. The world-class Gathering Place (named a Top 10 attraction by TripAdvisor)
2. Turkey Mountain trails
3. Rose Gardens, Botanical Gardens, and neighborhood parks
4. Dozens of nearby lakes for weekends on the water

The Cons of Living in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Of course, no city is perfect. Here are the downsides to Tulsa living you’ll want to weigh:

❌ 1. Weather & Tornado Reputation

Yes, Oklahoma is known for tornadoes. In Tulsa, they’re typically minor (EF0–EF2) and rarely destructive, but they’re part of life here. Summers are hot and humid, which can be a shock if you’re used to a dry climate.

❌ 2. Lack of Public Transportation

Tulsa is not a walkable or public-transit-friendly city. You’ll need a car to get around. The upside: quick commutes, minimal traffic, and plenty of parking.

❌ 3. Brown Lakes

Tulsa is surrounded by lakes, which makes for great recreation — but don’t expect turquoise water. Our lakes and ponds are naturally brown. Locals embrace it, but it can surprise newcomers expecting coastal-style waters.

❌ 4. Lower Wages (in Some Fields)

While the cost of living is low, wages in certain industries lag behind larger metros. Highly skilled professionals (like in medicine or tech) may find competitive pay, but many relocating buyers find their dollar stretches further here even if the paycheck is smaller.

Also worth noting: home insurance premiums in Oklahoma are higher than the national average. Factor this in when budgeting.

❌ 5. Limited Diversity & Reputation

Tulsa is more diverse and inclusive than many expect, but it’s not New York, LA, or Houston. You’ll also have to overcome the reputation — people who’ve never been here often picture tumbleweeds and farmland. The reality? Tulsa offers an elevated lifestyle, modern amenities, and a cultural scene that surprises nearly everyone who visits.

So, Is Tulsa Right for You?

Tulsa isn’t for everyone. But if you’re craving affordable housing, vibrant culture, outdoor spaces, and a community that feels like home, it could be exactly what you’re looking for.

For many of my clients relocating from high-cost areas, Tulsa has been a fresh start — a place where they can buy their dream home, slow down, and actually enjoy life without sacrificing opportunity or amenities.

Thinking About Moving to Tulsa?

At Allways Realty Group brokered by eXp, we specialize in helping relocation buyers make the move to Tulsa and surrounding suburbs seamlessly. Whether you’re six weeks or six months away, it’s never too early to start planning.

📲 Let’s talk about your move:

1. Call, text, or email anytime
2. Schedule a Zoom consult to get your questions answered
3. Explore neighborhoods, homes, and lifestyle options tailored to you

Tulsa just might be your next big move — and we’d love to help you make it happen. 🩵