Edmond, Oklahoma – Oklahoma’s Best-Kept Secret

Edmond at a Glance: Nestled just north of Oklahoma City, Edmond is often hailed as the “crown jewel” of Oklahoma – a vibrant yet peaceful community that perfectly balances small-town charm with big-city convenience. With its family-friendly atmosphere, top-notch schools, and abundance of parks and events, Edmond has quietly become one of the state’s best-kept secrets for those seeking a high quality of life. Home buyers and families are increasingly drawn to Edmond for its safe neighborhoods, welcoming community spirit, and easy access to metropolitan amenities. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Edmond shine – from its growing population and ideal location to its outdoor recreation, events, dining, and more – to help you feel right at home in this flourishing city.

A Growing Community with Small-Town Charm

Edmond has experienced steady growth while maintaining a close-knit, small-town feel. The city’s population now sits around 100,000 residents (as of 2025) and continues to rise about 1% each year (Edmond, Oklahoma Population 2025 ). This marks roughly a 16% increase since 2010, reflecting Edmond’s strong appeal and economic vitality (Edmond, Oklahoma Population 2025 ). Despite the growth, Edmond’s layout of tree-lined neighborhoods, community parks, and local shops preserves a friendly, hometown atmosphere. Neighbors know each other, community events abound, and there’s a palpable pride in keeping Edmond a welcoming place for families. It’s no surprise that Edmond is one of Oklahoma’s most sought-after cities, combining the perks of a growing city (new amenities, housing options, and infrastructure) with the warmth and safety of a much smaller town.

One of the first things newcomers notice is Edmond’s strong community spirit. The city consistently ranks among the safest in Oklahoma, thanks to low crime rates and proactive public safety efforts . In fact, Edmond is often listed as one of the safest cities in the entire country (Visit Edmond), which brings peace of mind for those raising families. Residents take pride in their community – from well-kept yards and clean streets to active volunteerism and neighborhood groups, the friendly Oklahoma hospitality is on full display. Yet Edmond also embraces progress: new shopping centers, schools, and recreational facilities have opened in recent years to serve the growing population. The result is a community that’s thriving but still intimate, where you can enjoy modern conveniences without losing that small-town sense of belonging.

Location, Commute & Accessibility

One of Edmond’s greatest advantages is its prime location in the heart of Oklahoma. The city is situated immediately north of Oklahoma City, just about 15 miles from downtown OKC. That means residents can easily commute into the capital for work or entertainment – typically a 20-30 minute drive by car. Major highways like I-35, I-235 (Broadway Extension), and U.S. Route 77 run through or near Edmond, making travel throughout the metro straightforward. Despite being so close to a major city, Edmond is nicely removed from the hustle and bustle, offering a quieter suburban refuge at the end of the day.

Getting around Edmond and beyond is convenient for commuters and travelers alike. For daily commuters, driving into Oklahoma City’s employment centers is a smooth ride, and Edmond’s local traffic is manageable compared to larger cities. Many neighborhoods are within a 5-10 minute drive of I-35 or Broadway Extension, so you can hop on the freeway and be in downtown Oklahoma City or Tinker Air Force Base in short order. Will Rogers World Airport – the region’s largest airport – is only about a 30-minute drive from Edmond, providing easy access to domestic and international flights (Visit Edmond). This proximity is a huge perk for professionals who fly frequently or families welcoming visitors from out of town. Additionally, just north of Edmond lies the Guthrie-Edmond Regional Airport, a general aviation airport only 7 miles up the road, which is handy for private planes and corporate jets (Guthrie-Edmond Regional Airport | Edmond, OK - Official Website). Whether you’re commuting to work, catching a flight, or embarking on a road trip, Edmond’s location makes it all very convenient while still letting you come home to a calmer, small-city environment.

Outdoor Recreation & Parks

(Arcadia Lake) A spectacular sunset over Arcadia Lake in Edmond, where residents enjoy boating, fishing, and lakeside trails year-round. Edmond is an outdoor lover’s dream come true, offering an abundance of parks, trails, and recreational activities. In fact, with over 3,380 acres of parkland and 47 miles of multi-use trails throughout the city, the great outdoors is never far away (Outdoor Recreation) (Visit Edmond). The crown jewel of Edmond’s outdoor scene is Arcadia Lake, a 1,700-acre reservoir on the city’s eastern edge that provides four seasons of fun for all ages. At Arcadia Lake you can go picnicking, camping, swimming, boating, water-skiing, disc golfing, hiking, and biking along scenic shores (Arcadia Lake). The fishing at Arcadia is renowned – anglers reel in bass, catfish, bluegill and more from both shore and heated, covered docks year-round (Arcadia Lake). Multiple parks (Central State, Edmond Park, Spring Creek Park) around the lake offer boat ramps, swim beaches, RV and tent campgrounds, and playgrounds. If you’re an equestrian or simply love horseback riding, Arcadia Lake even features a dedicated 6-mile equestrian trail winding through beautiful woods and meadows (Trails | Edmond, OK - Official Website) – a unique amenity that highlights Edmond’s blend of urban convenience with country hobbies.

Within town, Edmond maintains dozens of city parks that cater to sports, play, and relaxation. One of the most notable is Mitch Park, a sprawling 280-acre park in north Edmond that is packed with facilities for active fun. Mitch Park contains over 5 miles of paved trails (great for walking, jogging, or cycling), several playgrounds (including handicap-accessible play areas), picnic pavilions, and plenty of open green space (Facilities • Mitch Park). For sports enthusiasts, Mitch Park offers a disc golf course, basketball courts, a sand volleyball court, and even a skate park – all free to use (Facilities • Mitch Park). An outdoor amphitheater in the park hosts summer concerts and events, and the Mitch Park YMCA complex on-site features an indoor aquatic center and fitness facilities. Another community favorite is E.C. Hafer Park, a 121-acre park in the center of Edmond known for its tranquil walking trails that wind around a duck pond and through wooded areas. Hafer Park has playgrounds, picnic spots, and a stage that hosts the annual “Concerts in the Park” summer series. Throughout Edmond, you’ll also find amenities like dog parks, splash pads for kids, sports complexes for soccer/baseball, and golf courses. Golfers will be delighted by championship courses such as KickingBird Golf Club (a recently renovated public course) and the private Oak Tree National, which has hosted major PGA and LPGA tournaments (Visit Edmond). Whether you’re into hiking, cycling, horseback riding, or little league sports, Edmond’s parks and recreation system provides countless opportunities to get outside and stay active.

Community Events & Cultural Attractions

Edmond may have a laid-back feel, but the community calendar is brimming with events, festivals, and cultural attractions year-round. Residents often say there’s always something to do in Edmond, especially for families. One beloved tradition is the LibertyFest celebration each summer – a week-long patriotic festival around the Fourth of July that draws over 125,000 attendees and culminates in one of the state’s largest hometown Independence Day parades and fireworks displays (City of Edmond | TravelOK.com - Oklahoma's Official Travel & Tourism Site). LibertyFest includes a park concert, road rally, food vendors, and more, consistently ranking among the top July 4th events in the nation. In the spring, the streets of downtown come alive for the annual Downtown Edmond Arts Festival, where over 100 artists display their paintings, sculptures, and crafts, accompanied by live music and local food trucks. Another can’t-miss event is Heard on Hurd – a monthly street festival held on warm-weather Friday nights in downtown Edmond. At Heard on Hurd, families and friends gather to enjoy live music, dozens of food trucks, pop-up shops, and a block-party atmosphere that truly showcases Edmond’s community spirit (Visit Edmond). These events (and many others) offer wonderful ways to meet neighbors and celebrate local culture. From the VIBES art walk on first Thursdays (featuring local artists and performers) to seasonal festivities like “Miracle on 2nd Street” during the holidays, Edmond’s community events bring people together and create lasting memories (Living in Edmond: Your Guide to Moving to Edmond | Homes by Taber | Homes By Taber).

Beyond the festivals, Edmond boasts impressive cultural attractions for a city its size. The Armstrong Auditorium is a prime example – a world-class performing arts center right in Edmond that hosts internationally acclaimed concerts, ballets, and symphony performances. In this stunning 823-seat venue, you can catch shows ranging from the Russian National Ballet to the Vienna Boys’ Choir on their world tours (City of Edmond | TravelOK.com - Oklahoma's Official Travel & Tourism Site). For everyday arts and learning, Edmond is home to a thriving arts scene: galleries and public art installations decorate downtown (keep an eye out for whimsical sculptures on street corners and in parks), and the Edmond Historical Society & Museum offers a peek into the city’s rich heritage dating back to the 1880s. Music lovers enjoy nights out at the UCO Jazz Lab, a combined jazz venue and nightclub run by the University of Central Oklahoma’s renowned music program. The Jazz Lab features live music (not just jazz) in an intimate setting and doubles as a teaching facility for UCO students. Speaking of UCO, having a university in town adds to Edmond’s cultural vibrancy – you can attend Broncho sporting events, theater productions, and lectures on campus throughout the year. In short, Edmond delivers far more culture and entertainment than one might expect, blending big-city caliber attractions (symphonies, art galleries, collegiate sports) with homegrown community fun (parades, farmers markets, and fairs). You’ll never be bored living here!

Dining & Shopping in Edmond

Foodies and shoppers alike will feel right at home in Edmond. The city’s dining scene is wonderfully diverse – almost 200 restaurants span the spectrum from down-home Oklahoma cooking to exotic international fare (City of Edmond | TravelOK.com - Oklahoma's Official Travel & Tourism Site). Whether you’re craving barbecue and chicken-fried steak or sushi and Ethiopian injera, you can find it in Edmond’s array of eateries. Many restaurants are locally owned gems that give Edmond its character. For instance, Around the Corner Restaurant is a classic Edmond diner that’s been serving hearty breakfasts and comfort food since 1951 – it’s the kind of friendly small-town café where everyone seems to know each other. On the upscale end, you’ll find Signature Grill, an intimate chef-operated bistro known for steak and seafood, and Boulevard Steakhouse, a fine dining staple ideal for date nights. In between are dozens of family-friendly spots like Hideaway Pizza (an Oklahoma pizza institution beloved for its eclectic toppings), Zarate’s Latin Grill (offering a flavorful tour of Latin American cuisines), and Café 501 (a stylish café and bakery at Spring Creek). Edmond’s dining options truly cover every taste and budget, including plenty of national favorites alongside the local options – so you’ll never run out of new places to try. Don’t forget dessert: locals rave about spots like Insomnia Cookies for late-night treats and Main Street Bakery for morning cinnamon rolls. And if you’re a craft beer or coffee enthusiast, Edmond has you covered with craft breweries, wine bars, and cozy coffee shops (try Evoke downtown or Summer Moon Coffee for a unique oak-roasted brew).

When it comes to shopping, Edmond offers a mix of modern convenience and boutique charm. The city is home to all the everyday necessities – from supermarkets and big-box retailers (Target, Walmart, Home Depot, etc.) to specialty stores – so you won’t need to venture far for your routine shopping. For a more unique shopping experience, many residents head to Historic Downtown Edmond, where brick-lined streets and historic buildings house a variety of local shops. Strolling down Broadway in downtown, you can browse antique stores, art galleries, trendy boutiques, and gift shops that each offer one-of-a-kind finds (The Best Places to Shop in Edmond: Where Retail Meets Splendor | Blog | David Oliver). Downtown Edmond is the perfect place to support local businesses, and you’ll often meet the shop owners themselves who are full of local tips and friendly conversation. Throughout the year, the downtown also hosts an outdoor Farmers Market at the Festival Marketplace, where you can buy farm-fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts – a Saturday morning ritual for many families.

For more extensive retail options, Edmond features several shopping centers and districts. Notably, Spring Creek Plaza on South Bryant Avenue is an upscale open-air lifestyle center that has been voted Edmond’s best shopping destination multiple years in a row (The Best Places to Shop in Edmond: Where Retail Meets Splendor | Blog | David Oliver). Spring Creek Plaza’s beautifully landscaped walkways are lined with popular retailers like Loft, Kendra Scott, and local boutiques, as well as restaurants and services, making it a convenient one-stop location for shopping and dining (The Best Places to Shop in Edmond: Where Retail Meets Splendor | Blog | David Oliver). Nearby, Bryant Square and North Oaks shopping centers provide additional choices with stores for clothing, electronics, home goods, and more. And just a short drive south to the Memorial Road corridor (on the Edmond/Oklahoma City line) takes you to Chisholm Creek and Quail Springs Mall, which offer even more national retail stores, a movie theater, and entertainment options. In Edmond itself, specialty shops are sprinkled all over town – from the quaint storefronts of downtown to modern plazas like Spring Creek, you’ll find everything from high-fashion boutiques to hobby shops and health food markets. In summary, Edmond gives shoppers the best of both worlds: charming local retail (where customer service is personal and the finds are unique) and all the familiar brands and conveniences you expect in a modern city. Whether you’re on a grocery run, updating your wardrobe, or hunting for the perfect gift, Edmond’s shopping scene has you covered.

Family-Friendly Lifestyle and Amenities

What truly makes Edmond stand out is its exceptional quality of life – especially for families. This city consistently earns high marks as a family-friendly community with an environment where both kids and parents can thrive. A cornerstone of Edmond’s appeal is its excellent public school system. Edmond Public Schools are among the top-ranked in the state, known for rigorous academics and outstanding extracurricular programs. Many local schools have earned National Blue Ribbon awards for excellence, and the district as a whole is rated #1 in the Oklahoma City metro area and #2 statewide according to recent Niche.com rankings (Living in Edmond: Your Guide to Moving to Edmond | Homes by Taber | Homes By Taber). What that means for residents is access to well-funded schools with dedicated teachers, strong STEM and arts curricula, and a wide range of sports and clubs for students. Families often cite Edmond’s schools as a deciding factor in moving here – from elementary through high school, kids receive a high-quality education in a safe, supportive setting. In addition to public schools, Edmond has various private and charter school options, as well as two major college campuses – the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) and Oklahoma Christian University – which contribute to an educated, youthful vibe in town. UCO, in particular, offers not only higher education opportunities but also cultural benefits (like the Jazz Lab and college sports) that the whole community enjoys. Simply put, if raising a family is a priority, Edmond provides an ideal backdrop with its combination of great schools, low crime, and positive youth programs (parks, sports leagues, libraries, YMCA activities, etc.).

Safety and neighborliness go hand-in-hand in Edmond. As mentioned earlier, Edmond is one of the safest communities you’ll find, with crime rates well below national averages (Living in Edmond: Your Guide to Moving to Edmond | Homes by Taber | Homes By Taber). The city’s police and fire departments are highly responsive and community-oriented – you’ll often see them engaging with residents at events or visiting schools to educate kids. This focus on safety has helped Edmond earn a reputation as a place where families can relax and kids can play outside with peace of mind. The community also values cleanliness and beautification; you’ll notice well-maintained parks, decorative street art, and landscaping projects that keep Edmond looking its best. Another aspect families appreciate is the abundance of youth sports and recreation programs. The city and YMCA organize everything from soccer leagues and swim lessons to art classes and summer camps, ensuring children have plenty of opportunities to learn, stay active, and make friends. For adults, there are hobby groups, faith communities, and volunteer organizations that make it easy to get involved and meet like-minded neighbors. Edmond truly fosters a tight-knit, caring community where people look out for each other. Newcomers often comment on how welcoming everyone is – don’t be surprised if neighbors greet you with homemade cookies or invite you to the next block party soon after you move in!

Finally, it’s worth noting that Edmond offers an attractive cost of living and housing market for home buyers. You get a lot of value here compared to many parts of the country. Overall, the cost of living in Edmond is about 9% lower than the U.S. average, with housing costs roughly 19% more affordable than the national average (Cost of Living in Edmond, OK 2025 | RentCafe). In practical terms, that means your housing dollar stretches further – whether you’re looking at modern suburban homes in new developments or charming established neighborhoods with larger lots. Edmond features a range of housing styles, from spacious single-family homes and luxury estates to townhomes and apartments, accommodating different lifestyles and budgets. The median home price in Edmond is typically in the mid-$300,000s to low-$400,000s (fluctuating with the market) (Edmond Housing Market: House Prices & Trends - Redfin) (Cost of Living in Edmond, OK 2025 | RentCafe), which is quite reasonable given the high quality of the schools and amenities. Property taxes support the excellent local services but remain moderate. Many master-planned communities in Edmond boast perks like neighborhood pools, walking trails, and playgrounds, adding to the family-friendly appeal. And with Edmond’s low crime and strong property values, buying a home here is often considered a great long-term investment. Whether you prefer a quiet cul-de-sac or a home near the action of downtown, Edmond’s neighborhoods offer a welcoming place to put down roots. In summary, life in Edmond is characterized by comfort, community, and opportunity. Families find it easy to build a happy, healthy life here – you’ll enjoy the slow-paced weekends at the lake or farmer’s market just as much as the quick commute to work on weekdays. Edmond truly delivers the best of both worlds, making it a place you’ll love to call home.

What We Love Most About Edmond

• Arcadia Lake – A beautiful lake with 1,820 acres of water and parks offering fishing, boating, swimming beaches, camping grounds, plus 13 miles of trails (including hiking, biking and a dedicated equestrian trail) through scenic Oklahoma landscapes (Arcadia Lake) (Trails | Edmond, OK - Official Website). It’s the go-to spot for outdoor fun in all seasons, from summer picnics and jet-skiing to peaceful sunset walks along the shore.

• Mitch Park & Trails – Edmond’s largest city park (280 acres) featuring 5+ miles of paved trails, multiple playgrounds, a disc golf course, sports courts, a skate park, and even an outdoor amphitheater (Facilities • Mitch Park) (Facilities • Mitch Park). Families love the expansive green space for walking, biking, flying kites, and community events. (Don’t miss the Edmond Ice Rink and holiday lights display here in winter, or the YMCA’s year-round pools and programs.)

• Downtown Edmond & Heard on Hurd – A charming historic downtown district filled with local boutiques, coffee shops, and public art. On the third Saturday of the month from spring through fall, downtown transforms for Heard on Hurd, a lively street festival with food trucks, live music, and activities for all ages (Visit Edmond). It’s the perfect place to mingle with neighbors and enjoy Edmond’s small-town camaraderie.

• LibertyFest (4th of July Festival) – Edmond’s famous Independence Day celebration spanning a full week each summer. Events include a car show, concert in the park, kite fest, road rally, and more, all culminating on July 4th with Oklahoma’s largest hometown Fourth of July Parade and a spectacular fireworks show that draws over 100,000 spectators (City of Edmond | TravelOK.com - Oklahoma's Official Travel & Tourism Site). The patriotic pride and community spirit at LibertyFest are truly unforgettable.

• Edmond’s Trails & Bike Paths – An extensive network of trails such as the Spring Creek Trail, a scenic 2.5-mile paved path connecting Arcadia Lake to eastern Edmond (Trails | Edmond, OK - Official Website), and numerous greenbelt trails in neighborhoods. With 47 miles of trails citywide for walking, jogging, and cycling (Visit Edmond), Edmond makes it easy to stay active. Many trails wind through wooded areas and parks, offering safe and beautiful routes for exercise or family bike rides.

• Local Dining Favorites – A few must-try eateries in Edmond include Around the Corner (a nostalgic downtown diner serving home-style breakfast and lunch since the 1950s), Café 501 at Spring Creek (a chic cafe/bakery known for its sandwiches, salads and pastries), and Hideaway Pizza (a family-friendly pizzeria famous for creative pies). For a fun night out, check out The Patriarch – a unique craft beer garden set in a historic house with yard games and food trucks. With cuisines ranging from Mexican at Ted’s Café Escondido to Ethiopian at Queen of Sheba, you’ll quickly find your own favorites among Edmond’s 200+ restaurants (City of Edmond | TravelOK.com - Oklahoma's Official Travel & Tourism Site)!

• Public Art & Culture – Edmond’s thriving public art program means you’ll encounter over 250 outdoor sculptures and murals around town, giving it an artsy flair. Notable attractions include the Armstrong Auditorium, which hosts world-class concerts and ballets in a stunning venue (City of Edmond | TravelOK.com - Oklahoma's Official Travel & Tourism Site), and the Edmond Historical Museum for a dose of local history. The UCO Jazz Lab offers live music on weekends in an intimate setting. Culturally, Edmond punches above its weight, offering plenty of enrichment for all ages.

We hope this guide has given you a warm welcome to Edmond and a taste of why so many people fall in love with this community. Edmond, Oklahoma truly offers a little bit of everything – from outdoor adventures and top-tier schools to friendly neighbors, great food, and memorable events – all wrapped in a safe, small-town atmosphere. It’s a place where families can put down roots and enjoy life to the fullest. Welcome home to Edmond, one of Oklahoma’s best-kept secrets!

Sources: Edmond Economic Development Authority; Visit Edmond Tourism; City of Edmond; U.S. Census & Demographics (Edmond, Oklahoma Population 2025 ) (Visit Edmond) (City of Edmond | TravelOK.com - Oklahoma's Official Travel & Tourism Site) (See inline citations throughout text for specific references.)