Oklahoma City Named Top 50 Best Places to Live for Families by Fortune

Having a great place to start a career or raise a family is crucial for many people. Recently, Oklahoma City was recognized as one of the top 50 best places to live in the United States for families by Fortune. The city's high rank was based on various factors, including livability, education, resources for older adults, wellness, and financial health. Additionally, the study paid close attention to services that support people and their families in aging well, such as access to healthcare.

Oklahoma City's Position in the Ranking

Oklahoma City secured the 48th position in the prestigious ranking. The city's strong showing was attributed to its affordability and relatively low crime rates. With a metro area population of over 1.4 million, Oklahoma City is among the top 20 largest cities in the U.S. in terms of population. Furthermore, it boasts an expansive area of 620 square miles, positioning it as one of the largest cities in the world by land mass. Within the city limits, the population stands at 681,446 people, according to U.S. News.

One of the key factors that contributed to Oklahoma City's placement on the list is its affordability. The city offers a lower cost of living compared to many others, with a median home price of $199,303 and median rent of $1,175 per month, based on data from U.S. News. In fact, Oklahoma City was recently recognized as one of the most affordable cities, and its economy has been experiencing steady growth.

Despite its overall affordability, some areas within Oklahoma City are witnessing a rise in housing prices, particularly in the downtown region. While the city has a higher than average crime rate, it still maintains a favorable standing in comparison to other metro areas of similar size. Additionally, although certain communities are walkable, the majority of residents rely on cars for transportation. However, the city has been making significant strides in enhancing its public transit system, particularly in the northwest area. There are plans to further improve public transit with the potential implementation of a new rail system, subject to a 2025 election. If approved, this system would connect major areas, such as Edmond and Norman, which are currently a short drive from the metro.

Family-Oriented Attractions and Activities

Oklahoma City offers a multitude of attractions and activities that cater to families. From a science museum to a botanical garden, the city provides an array of recreational options. Notable landmarks and entertainment venues include the Oklahoma State Fair, the Oklahoma City Zoo, a drive-in theater, and several amusement parks, such as Riversport, Six Flags' Frontier City, and Hurricane Harbor.

For those interested in delving into the city's rich history, there are ample opportunities to explore Western heritage and visit various museums. A trip to Stockyards City offers a firsthand experience of its historical significance, as it was originally established as a public cattle market in 1910. Moreover, Oklahoma City is home to other cultural districts and institutions, including the Plaza District, the Paseo Arts District, and the Tower Theatre on NW 23. History enthusiasts can also immerse themselves in the exhibits at the Oklahoma History Center and the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

Looking beyond its current offerings, Oklahoma City is exploring the possibility of introducing a stadium district that could potentially amount to $1 billion in value, demonstrating the city's commitment to further enriching its entertainment and recreational options.

Other U.S. Cities Recognized

In addition to Oklahoma City, several other U.S. cities were acknowledged for being highly favorable for families. The top 20 best cities for families to live in, as per the Fortune analysis, include: Silver Spring, Maryland; Upper Merion, Pennsylvania; Chantilly, Virginia; Ann Arbor, Michigan; Mason, Ohio; Franklin, Tennessee; Lafayette, Colorado; Overland Park, Kansas; Morristown, New Jersey; Portsmouth, New Hampshire; Somerville, Massachusetts; Woodbury, Minnesota; Frisco, Texas; San Jose, California; North Hempstead, New York; Bethany, Oregon; South Portland, Maine; Middleton, Wisconsin; Westfield, Indiana; and West Chicago, Illinois.