Oklahoma City ranks No. 2 among nation’s best big cities to live in
Oklahoma City has been ranked the No. 2 best large city to live in in the United States by U.S. News & World Report in its 2026-2027 rankings.
Oklahoma City has been ranked the No. 2 best large city to live in in the United States by U.S. News & World Report in its 2026-2027 rankings.
Oklahoma City continues to stand out for affordability, ranking as the lowest-cost large city in the nation according to the newly released 2026 Q1 Cost of Living Index from C2ER, The Council for Community and Economic Research.
Paycom Center has been named a finalist for Arena of the Year by the Academy of Country Music, a recognition that reinforces Oklahoma City’s growing position as a top-tier destination for major touring acts and live entertainment.
Oklahoma City is earning national recognition for its growing event scene, with two local markets nominated for Best Night Market in the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
Oklahoma City ranked as the most affordable metro area among large U.S. cities in the 2025 annual Cost of Living Index[CR1.1] published by C2ER, the Council for Community and Economic Research.
Oklahoma City’s food scene continues to gain national attention, with recent recognition from travel platforms, industry awards and consumer rankings pointing to broader momentum across the metro’s dining landscape.
Oklahoma City enters 2026 with momentum few cities can match and responsibility that comes with it. An NBA championship. National recognition for quality of life and cost competitiveness. Growing attention as a visitor destination and a place where employers and talent want to land. And just ahead, a global spotlight tied to the region’s role in the 2028 Olympic Games.
In 2025, Oklahoma City translated long-term strategy into measurable results, delivering economic, legislative and infrastructure outcomes that position the region for sustained growth.