Durango vs. Oklahoma City: A Tale of Two Real Estate Markets – Lifestyle, Climate & Investment Compared
Explore the key differences between these two growing markets—from mountain charm to metropolitan energy—and discover which one aligns with your goals.
by Ashley Blackmore in collaboration with Cassi Justiz
Whether you're looking to relocate, invest, or simply explore your options, Durango, Colorado and the Oklahoma City Metro Area are two distinctly appealing places capturing attention in today’s real estate market. One offers rugged mountain beauty and a tight-knit community vibe, while the other delivers urban energy, economic growth, and surprising affordability.
In this blog, we’ll compare these two unique locations across key factors: climate, lifestyle, market data, what’s driving demand, and investment potential. If you're weighing your next move, let this serve as your comprehensive starting point.
🏞️ A Quick Introduction
Durango, CO is nestled in the San Juan Mountains in Southwest Colorado. It’s known for its outdoor adventure scene, historic downtown, and proximity to national parks. It's a haven for nature lovers and remote workers who crave a slower pace without sacrificing culture or amenities.
In contrast, the Oklahoma City Metro Area is one of the fastest-growing regions in the central U.S. With a low cost of living, strong job market, and a revitalized downtown, OKC appeals to families, young professionals, and investors looking for growth without the sky-high prices of larger metros.
🌤️ Climate & Lifestyle Snapshot
Durango:
Four true seasons with snowy winters and dry, sunny summers
Ideal for skiing, hiking, rafting, and mountain biking
Small-town feel with a vibrant local arts and food scene
Oklahoma City:
Mild winters and hot summers with a touch of southern hospitality
Plenty of parks, lakes, and a growing foodie and cultural scene
More suburban sprawl with urban conveniences
If your lifestyle leans toward outdoor recreation and small-town charm, Durango is hard to beat. But if you're after a dynamic city with career opportunities and growing amenities, OKC delivers.
📊 Real Estate Market Comparison (as of Q1 2025)
🚀 What’s Driving Each Market?
Durango:
Limited land for new development increases competition
High demand from remote workers, retirees, and second-home buyers
Proximity to outdoor recreation and scenic value boosts desirability
Oklahoma City:
Booming job market in aerospace, health care, and energy
Influx of out-of-state movers looking for affordability
Ongoing urban development and infrastructure projects
💭 Lifestyle Considerations
• Want space, nature, and quiet? Durango wins.
• Crave cultural events, career mobility, and affordability? OKC may be the better fit.
• Think about school quality, healthcare access, and daily conveniences—both markets offer pros and cons depending on your priorities.
💬 Expert Market Insights from Ashley Blackmore Realtor® – Durango & Southwest Colorado
“As someone who’s worked closely with buyers and sellers across Durango and Southwest Colorado, I can tell you that demand here continues to outpace inventory—especially for well-maintained homes under $800,000. Buyers are prioritizing lifestyle: they want access to trails, walkable neighborhoods like Historic Downtown, or proximity to skiing and lakes. We’re seeing strong interest from remote workers, retirees, and even young families making intentional moves away from urban sprawl.”
“Durango isn’t just a place—it’s a lifestyle. Whether it's biking to work, hitting the slopes before lunch, or enjoying a local brew downtown, people are investing in more than just property—they’re investing in quality of life. That’s something buyers can’t always find in larger metro areas.”
“From an investment perspective, properties that cater to tourism—like short-term rentals near Purgatory or the Animas River—have been solid performers. And while regulations are evolving, there's still strong opportunity with the right property in the right location.”
If you're considering a move to Durango, Ashley adds, “It’s important to have a local agent who understands the nuances of our market, especially when it comes to navigating low inventory and competitive offers. We’re a close-knit community—and that extends to how we do business.”
💬 Expert Market Insights from Cassi Justiz Realtor® – Oklahoma City Metro Area
“The Oklahoma City Metro continues to show remarkable resilience and value in 2025. We’re seeing steady demand across the board—from first-time buyers to seasoned investors. Affordability is a huge draw. With a median home price still under $300,000, buyers from higher-cost states are relocating here for more space, newer homes, and a better cost of living.”
“One of the standout trends is growth in suburban communities like Moore, Yukon, and Edmond. These areas offer top-rated schools, new construction, and easy access to downtown OKC. We're also seeing a lot of interest in revitalized neighborhoods like The Paseo and Plaza District, especially among young professionals looking for charm and culture.”
“For investors, Oklahoma City offers strong rental potential. The job market is diverse and stable, especially in health care, aerospace, and tech. Rental demand is up, and properties in well-located areas are leasing quickly. It’s a great market for buy-and-hold strategies and portfolio growth.”
Cassi emphasizes the importance of timing and local insight:
“Inventory is moving fast, but we’re not seeing the bidding wars of markets like Denver or Austin. That makes OKC a great option for buyers who want opportunity without overwhelming pressure. Working with a local agent who understands neighborhood trends and upcoming development is key to finding the right fit—whether you’re buying a home or investing long-term.”
ABOUT THE EXPERTS
Ashley Blackmore - Real Estate Professional | Luxury & Equestrian Property Specialist
Ashley Blackmore, a Durango, Colorado native, combines her strong background in Business Management and Marketing from Fort Lewis College with a passion for her hometown to elevate the local real estate industry. Recognizing the need for a higher level of professionalism, she entered the market with a commitment to redefine real estate standards.
Founder of Ashley Blackmore Homes - A Luxury Real Estate Brand
Ashley established her own luxury real estate brand to deliver innovative marketing strategies, particularly focusing on video and social media to stay ahead of trends. She is known for her strategic, forward-thinking approach, emphasizing the "lifestyle" that comes with a home, setting her apart from traditional agents.
Specialist in Selling Hard-to-Sell Properties
With an in-depth knowledge of the local market, Ashley excels in accurate property pricing and successfully sells hard-to-sell properties. Her dedication to building long-term relationships has earned her trust and loyalty from clients both locally and nationally.
Mentor & Advocate for Entrepreneurs
In addition to her real estate expertise, Ashley is passionate about mentoring fellow entrepreneurs, helping them build successful businesses using innovative strategies and insights.
Commitment to Luxury & Equestrian Properties Across North America
As part of Ashley Blackmore Homes’ mission, we connect luxury and equestrian property buyers with expert insights across North America. Specializing in luxury ranches and mountain estates in Colorado and New Mexico, we partner with distinguished realtors to deliver comprehensive market knowledge.
Cassi Justiz - Real Estate Professional
Founder of The Justiz League Real Estate Team – Guiding with Heart, Knowledge & Experience
Cassi Justiz, born and raised in Lubbock, Texas, I pursued my education at Texas Tech University and Oklahoma State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration. After moving to Oklahoma City for a job opportunity, I quickly found my place in the community—and in real estate.
From Healthcare to Housing – A Natural Transition to Real Estate
After spending a decade in nursing and administrative roles, I began building a rental property portfolio. That journey revealed my true passion: helping others navigate the often overwhelming world of real estate. In 2019, my husband Ralph joined me in this mission, and together we formed The Justiz League Real Estate Team, dedicated to empowering buyers, sellers, and investors alike.
A Commitment to Excellence & Education
To deliver top-tier service, I’ve earned several certifications and designations, including Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR), Seller’s Representative Specialist (SRS), Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA), Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource (SFR), and At Home With Diversity (AHWD). I proudly serve as Chairperson for the Oklahoma City Metropolitan Association of Realtors Diversity and Inclusion Committee and am a graduate of the Association’s Leadership Class of 2021.
Empowering Clients at Every Stage of the Journey
Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading for a new season in life, or diversifying your investment portfolio, my team and I are here to guide you with integrity, insight, and empathy. We specialize in making the process smooth, educational, and even fun.
Life Beyond Real Estate
When I’m not working, I’m spending time with my husband, our toddler, and our dog. I’m a dedicated foodie who loves trying new restaurants, scrolling the internet for fun finds, and traveling every chance I get. The outdoors is my happy place.
📦 Making the Move
Relocating to a new city isn’t just about buying property—it’s about choosing a lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for your first home or your forever dream estate, it’s important to explore the area, connect with locals, and work with trusted professionals who know the market inside and out.
🛎️ Ready to Take the Next Step?
From the mountain charm and outdoor lifestyle of Durango to the dynamic growth and urban energy of Oklahoma City, both offer incredible opportunities for first-time buyers and luxury homeowners alike. The key is finding the perfect fit for your lifestyle and goals.
📩 Your Dream Home Starts Here
Whether you're taking your first step into homeownership or upgrading to something extraordinary, Ashley Blackmore and Cassi Justiz are here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s turn your vision into reality—contact us today and start the journey to your ideal home.
