3 Convincing Reasons Oklahoma Might Be the Best Place to Live for Retirees

Several important factors must be considered when choosing a place to retire. Affordability, of course, is at the top of nearly everyone’s mind, while lifestyle, climate, and community are other factors. Whether retirement is knocking at your door or you’re several years away from leaving corporate culture behind, you may want to put Oklahoma on your short list of places to consider retiring. So, where is the best place to retire in Oklahoma? Well, Enid is one, but there are others. Here are three convincing reasons why the Sooner State may be a top contender for retirees:

1. Affordability and Cost of Living

Many want to be where they can stretch their dollar the farthest, and budget-conscious retirees might be interested to know that Oklahoma is an affordable place to retire. According to FinanceBuzz, Oklahoma is an excellent option to retire comfortably for less than $60,000 annually. The state's low cost of living, low tax rates, no Social Security tax, a median home sales price of $252,800, and wonderful quality of life are all desirable attributes.

One of the most affordable places to retire in Oklahoma is Enid. With an average rent of $1,000 per month and a median home price of $131,888, according to FinanceBuzz's article, 15 Small Towns Where Retirees Can Live Like Millionaires on $50,000 a Year, Enid seems like an obvious choice. Enid's Western feel and proximity to six state parks are other reasons that may convince you to retire here.

2. Weather, Climate, and Natural Beauty

Oklahoma is a four-season state with cold winters, wet springs, warm and sunny summers, and cool autumns. The annual average temperature is 60°F, while the average rainfall is 32 inches. Although Oklahoma is landlocked, did you know that there are 11,611 miles of shoreline throughout the state? This high number stems from the lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams that offer endless water-based recreation, such as swimming, boating, and fishing. Additionally, Oklahoma is a wondrous mix of landscapes and natural attractions, including 38 state parks, tallgrass prairies, waterfalls, the Ouachita Mountains, rolling hills, and rock formations. The scenery is stunning and entices people of all ages to get outside and explore.

3. Quality of Life in Oklahoma

Within the Sooner State are over 500 museums, which include history, art, Native American, military, and a range of unique museums. A portion of Route 66 runs through Oklahoma, making it a wonderful road trip option, especially for reliving the bygone days of the Mother Road. While there's plenty to do between natural and manmade attractions, plus a lower cost of living than many other states, Oklahoma also offers a slower pace of life and a friendly communities that should make you feel welcome.

Retiring in Oklahoma

If you're thinking of retiring, have you decided on where? With its high quality of life, access to outdoor recreation, and low cost of living, Oklahoma is a wonderful option for anyone on the precipice of retirement. Whether you're visiting or plan on retiring to the Sooner State, check out 26 Essential Oklahoma Experiences to plan for. You can also plan a wonderful Oklahoma getaway using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.