Oklahoma City OK

UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

liv score
545
How We Calculate Our Data
Civics 38
Demographics 61
Economy 72
Education 49
Health 47
Housing 43
Infrastructure 58

#89. Oklahoma City, OK

Serving as the state’s capital, Oklahoma City has a diverse population of more than 670,000 people, a strong economy and first-rate amenities. Here, you’ll find trendy, walkable neighborhoods, tons of restaurants, world-class cultural and entertainment options, an amazing arts scene, professional sports and outdoor recreation opportunities — all in one city.

Oklahoma City an urban metropolis with a Western flair — the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is located here, as well as the Oklahoma National Stockyards, which has live cattle auctions every Monday and holds the title for world’s largest stocker and feeder cattle market.

Local Obsession: Oklahoma City Thunder, the professional basketball team that relocated to OKC from Seattle in 2008.

Climate Described In 6 Words Or Less: Tornadoes, thunderstorms and humidity — oh my!

Top Industries and Employers: Energy, aerospace and government are the top industries here, with employers like Boeing and Devon Energy calling OKC home. Hobby Lobby’s headquarters are also here, as well as Sonic Drive-In.

Local Dream Job: Taste tester at Bedlam BAR-B-Q, a beloved local barbecue joint that highlights the fierce rivalry between Oklahoma State University and University of Oklahoma.

Quintessential Meal: Cheese curds (or a grilled cheese sandwich) and tomato soup from The Mule, located in the city’s Plaza District.

Favorite Weekend Activity: Strolling Bricktown, the city’s entertainment district.

After-Work Meetup Spot: Saints, an Irish pub with a great beer and cocktail selection and a casual atmosphere.

Best Brewery/Local Beer: Twisted Spike Brewing Company, which has a spacious tap room and really friendly people behind the bar.

Beloved Bookstore: Full Circle Bookstore, with its refined, classic bookstore vibe, has been in business for more than 30 years.

Free Way To Have Fun: Martin Park Nature Center, offering up 2.5 miles of woodland trails to explore. You might see deer, frogs, lizards, turtles and tons of bird species on a visit here.

Truly Hidden Gem: Craig’s Curious Emporium, a funky shop with unusual decor, trinkets and knick-knacks.

– Sarah Kuta

Read More:

Why Oklahoma City’s Arts Scene Deserves a Chance to Surprise You

5 Reasons to Move to the Oklahoma City Area Right Now

7 Quirky Things To Do in Oklahoma

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