Thinking of Moving to Edmond or OKC? Let’s Talk Real Numbers.
Thinking of Moving to Edmond or OKC? Let’s Talk Real Numbers.
If you’re relocating to central Oklahoma or just thinking about a move within the metro area, the question of cost of living in Edmond vs. Oklahoma City is bound to come up. At first glance, these two cities—just 20 minutes apart—might seem similar. But dig deeper, and you’ll discover that each offers a unique lifestyle, pace, and price tag that can influence your long-term financial comfort.
Whether you're a first-time homebuyer weighing your options or an out-of-state buyer researching the best place to settle, understanding how these two cities compare financially can help you make a smarter decision.
Let’s break it down—from housing costs to utilities, groceries, and more.
Is Housing Really More Expensive in Edmond?
Yes—and no. Edmond is generally considered more expensive than Oklahoma City when it comes to real estate, but that premium comes with perks.
In Edmond:
The median home price tends to hover around $320,000 to $400,000, depending on the neighborhood.
Most homes are located within top-rated school districts, which increases demand (and prices).
Newer developments and master-planned communities like Iron Horse Ranch, Twin Bridges, and Fallbrook often come with HOA fees but also offer community amenities like pools, trails, and playgrounds.
In Oklahoma City:
The median home price is often lower, around $230,000 to $290,000, with broader variability depending on the area.
Buyers can find more affordability in established neighborhoods like The Village, NW OKC, or south of I-40.
OKC’s size gives you more options—from historic districts to modern infill developments.
So while Edmond homes may cost more up front, many buyers see the trade-off in long-term value retention, neighborhood stability, and school quality.
Explore available listings and price trends on website or social media pages!
How Do Property Taxes and Utilities Compare?
Here’s where things get interesting. While home prices may be higher in Edmond, property tax rates in Oklahoma are relatively consistent. Both Edmond and OKC fall within Oklahoma County (though some parts of Edmond extend into Logan County), and average property tax rates are roughly 0.87% of a home’s assessed value.
However, utility costs can vary based on the city’s service providers:
Edmond runs its own city-managed utility services, which many residents find more responsive and locally focused.
OKC uses larger regional utility companies like OG&E, ONG, and OKC Water.
Monthly bills in both cities are comparable, though Edmond homes with larger square footage or higher-end finishes may have slightly higher energy usage.
Overall, the differences in utility costs won’t make or break your decision, but it’s something to factor into monthly budgeting.
Are Groceries, Dining, and Gas More Affordable in Oklahoma City?
When it comes to everyday living expenses, Oklahoma City tends to edge out Edmond with more variety and affordability:
Groceries and gas: Both are fairly consistent between cities, but OKC may have more competition among retailers, which can bring prices down. Warehouse stores like Costco and Sam’s Club are technically in OKC but easily accessible from Edmond.
Dining out: Edmond has a growing food scene, but OKC’s size and diversity mean you’ll find more options at every price point—from casual food trucks to upscale dining.
Entertainment: If you’re attending concerts, Thunder games, or visiting cultural institutions like the OKC Museum of Art or Scissortail Park, you’ll likely be heading into OKC anyway.
That said, Edmond isn’t without charm—downtown Edmond’s farmers market, Heard on Hurd, and Arcadia Lake provide plenty of weekend fun without driving far.
What About Commute Times and Gas Costs?
Edmond and Oklahoma City both offer shorter-than-average commute times compared to larger U.S. metros. But where you work matters:
If you work in downtown OKC and live in Edmond, expect a 25–30 minute drive during rush hour, mainly via I-235 or Broadway Extension.
Living in central or north OKC can significantly shorten that commute.
Gas prices are similar in both cities, but your total monthly fuel cost will depend on how much you drive. Some Edmond residents who work from home or locally don’t feel the pinch, while daily OKC commuters may rack up more mileage.
Planning your daily routine around your location can make a noticeable difference in your monthly costs.
Is the Quality of Life Worth the Difference in Cost?
This is the heart of the debate.
Edmond is known for:
Highly rated public schools
Beautiful master-planned communities
A more suburban, family-oriented atmosphere
Clean public spaces, parks, and a strong sense of local pride
Oklahoma City offers:
Diverse housing options for every budget
A faster pace, more entertainment, and urban amenities
Opportunities for shorter commutes and proximity to downtown employment hubs
So while you might save more month-to-month in Oklahoma City, many Edmond buyers see their higher housing cost as an investment in peace of mind, education, and neighborhood consistency. It’s not just about the price—it’s about how it feels to live there.
Which City Feels Like Home to You?
Choosing between Edmond and Oklahoma City isn’t just about comparing numbers—it’s about identifying the lifestyle that aligns with your values, goals, and day-to-day comfort. For some, Edmond’s calm streets and school district reputation are worth every penny. For others, Oklahoma City’s variety and vibrancy fit better with their pace and budget.
Not sure where your priorities land? Browse our neighborhood guides to get a better sense of what each area offers—or visit one of our open houses to experience the vibe firsthand.
This blog is brought to you by the Justiz League Real Estate Team—your neighbors right here in Edmond, Oklahoma.
We live here, we work here, and we raise our families here too. Whether you're exploring Edmond for the first time or comparing it to other areas in the metro, we know what it's like to weigh lifestyle vs. budget—and we’re here to help you navigate it with confidence.
Want a closer look at what it’s like to live in these neighborhoods day to day? Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to see behind-the-scenes home tours, local events, and real stories from real buyers. We share everything from hidden coffee shop gems to the latest market trends—because finding your perfect home starts with knowing your community.
