Economy

Oklahoma ranks among least expensive states for retirement

Oklahoma ranks as the second most affordable state for retirement, according to a report published by Visual Capitalist.

By Chamber Staff

Economy / June 9, 2025

OKC ranks fifth lowest in cost of living among U.S. urban areas

The Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) has released its Quarter 1 2025 Cost of Living Index. Among the 251 urban areas surveyed, the after-tax cost for a professional or managerial lifestyle ranged from more than twice the national average in New York (Manhattan) to more than 20% below the national average in Harlingen, Texas.

By Chamber Staff

Economy / June 4, 2025

Workforce momentum in Oklahoma: BioTC and OKC FAME drive workforce development across industries

BioTC, the state’s first biomanufacturing workforce training center, celebrated the completion of its first training cohort, held April 7-11. Led by the Oklahoma City Innovation District, the program prepares participants for entry-level roles in the biotechnology field.

By Lauren King

Economy / June 3, 2025

OKC ranks No. 1 for the lowest unemployment among large metros

Oklahoma City ranked No. 1 lowest unemployment rate in April among the 56 U.S. metropolitan areas with a population of over 1 million, signaling strength in the local economy. The metro’s 2.3% unemployment rate was down from 3.0% in March.

By Chamber Staff

Economy / May 28, 2025

OKC’s aviation powerhouse: Inside the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center

Since 1957, the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center (MMAC) has quietly anchored Oklahoma City at the center of the nation’s aviation system. Named after Sen. Mike Monroney, who helped pass the Federal Aviation Act, the center supports the safety of the National Airspace System (NAS)—a complex network that stretches from the skies to the ground—from traffic control to navigation and training.

By Lauren King

Economy / April 29, 2025

OKC unemployment remains low despite slight increases in early 2025

Unemployment in the Oklahoma City metro area remained low through the early months of 2025, with slight increases in January and February. Despite the month-to-month changes, the area continued its streak of unemployment below 4%, a sign of ongoing labor market stability both locally and across much of the state.

By Chamber Staff

Economy / April 15, 2025

OKC receives highest possible bond ratings for 17 years in a row

Moody’s Investors Service and S&P Global reaffirmed the City of Oklahoma City’s highest possible bond ratings, citing strong financial management and stability.

By Chamber Staff

Economy / April 14, 2025

OKC jumps 86 spots in Milken Institute’s Best-Performing Cities list

Oklahoma City recorded the second-largest jump in rankings on the Milken Institute’s 2025 Best-Performing Cities list, rising 86 spots from 144th to 58th.

By Chamber Staff