Oklahoma City ranks No. 1 in affordability among large U.S. metros in 2025 cost-of-living index

Oklahoma City ranked as the most affordable metro area among large U.S. cities in the 2025 annual Cost of Living Index published by C2ER, the Council for Community and Economic Research.

Among cities with populations of more than 500,000, Oklahoma City recorded the lowest overall cost of living, posting a composite index score of 81.2 compared to the national average of 100. The composite index measures the relative cost of consumer goods and services in each participating market, meaning Oklahoma City’s overall household expenses are approximately 18.8% lower than the national average.

Housing remains the largest driver of Oklahoma City’s affordability, with a housing index of 58.7, indicating costs more than 40% lower than the national average.

This ranking places Oklahoma City ahead of other large metropolitan areas participating in the index, which include markets such as Boston, Honolulu, San Jose and Los Angeles, where overall household costs can exceed the national average by a wide margin.

Across all 283 participating urban areas nationwide, Oklahoma City ranked sixth lowest overall and placed in the lowest quartile for cost of living.

The least expensive metro area included in the index was Tupelo, Mississippi, which recorded a score of 78.8. By comparison, the most expensive metro area was New York City’s Manhattan borough, which recorded a score of 238.9, or more than twice the national average.

Oklahoma City’s composite index score declined by 1.1 points from the 2024 annual release, indicating improved affordability relative to national trends. Year-over-year decreases were recorded in several major cost categories, including housing, transportation and health care.

Affordability remains a key factor in workforce attraction and business investment decisions, particularly as employers evaluate operating costs and employees consider relocation options. Lower household expenses can allow employers to offer competitive wages while maintaining lower operating costs; a factor often considered in relocation and expansion decisions.