Why 2025 Was Oklahoma City’s Best Year Yet

Oklahoma City did not simply build momentum in 2025. It delivered results. 

From transformational public votes to record-setting economic impact, the past year marked a clear inflection point for the city. The wins of 2025 were not incremental. They were catalytic, positioning Oklahoma City to compete nationally and setting the foundation for its next era of growth. 

A Year of Measurable Impact 

In 2025, Oklahoma City’s growth was visible not only in new announcements, but in the numbers behind them. Over the last year, the city welcomed 24.5 million visitors. Those visits generated $2.8 billion in direct spending, fueled a $4.6 billion total economic impact, and supported more than 35,000 local jobs. 

Those figures reflect more than tourism. They underscore Oklahoma City’s emergence as a destination for major events, business activity and long-term investment. 

Voters Delivered Catalytic Wins 

Few moments better captured the city’s confidence than the major votes advanced and approved this year. Oklahoma City voters overwhelmingly passed the $2.7 billion GO Bond, a generational investment that will shape infrastructure, public facilities and quality of life for decades to come. 

Voters also approved a new arena for the Oklahoma City Thunder, reinforcing downtown’s role as an economic engine and affirming the city’s commitment to remaining a premier sports and entertainment destination. These decisions were not about maintaining the status quo. They were about positioning Oklahoma City for what comes next. 

A Championship City on a National Stage 

In 2025, Oklahoma City earned global attention in a way few cities experience. The Oklahoma City Thunder captured an NBA championship, placing the city in the international spotlight and showcasing its passion, energy and civic pride. 

That visibility was amplified when Oklahoma City was named a host community for the 2028 Olympic Games. The announcement confirmed what local leaders and residents have long believed. Oklahoma City is no longer competing solely with regional peers. It is operating on a national stage. 

Legislative Wins That Strengthen Competitiveness 

The 2025 legislative session delivered some of the most business-forward outcomes Oklahoma has seen in more than a decade. Policies advanced this year strengthened innovation, workforce growth and long-term economic stability. 

Key wins included protections tied to the BioSecure Act, creation of a new research and development tax rebate, and Commerce reforms designed to bring consistency and durability to statewide economic development efforts. 

Critical incentive tools were also extended, including the Quality Events Act, Tourism Development Act, film and music rebates, and the aerospace engineering tax credit. Together, these actions ensure Oklahoma remains competitive in attracting marquee events, growing world-class industries and expanding tourism assets. 

Foundational Investments for the Future 

Beyond policy, 2025 delivered tangible investments that fuel growth across the region. The ROADS Fund increased to $610 million. The Airport Trust deployed $15 million in ARPA funds for infrastructure improvements. The Heartland Flyer secured another year of operation. The Quality Jobs Incentive Leverage Act was modernized to better support business recruitment and expansion. 

In education, leaders strengthened accountability at the State Board of Education, added an instructional day to the school calendar, and restricted virtual learning days to protect in-person instruction. These steps reinforced a shared commitment to improving student outcomes and preparing the future workforce. 

Collaboration Made the Difference 

None of 2025’s progress happened in isolation. Success was driven by collaboration among business leaders, policymakers, tribal nation partners and community stakeholders. 

The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber played a central role in advancing major initiatives, strengthening partnerships with City Hall, and aligning leaders around a shared strategic vision. Even when perspectives differed, the focus remained on shared outcomes and long-term impact. 

That collaborative approach moved the city from planning to execution. In 2025, Oklahoma City actively advanced the EY strategic plan, sharpening its focus on industries of the future and raising expectations for what the city can achieve. 

Setting a New Standard 

While Oklahoma City still faces challenges in areas such as education, workforce development, inclusion and infrastructure, 2025 proved what is possible when a community aligns around a common goal. 

The year was not about competing with other cities. It was about becoming the best version of Oklahoma City. With strategic investments, strong partnerships and sustained momentum, 2025 set a new benchmark for success and positioned the city for extraordinary growth in the years ahead.