Welcome to Moore: A Warm & Growing Community

Nestled between Oklahoma City and Norman, Moore, Oklahoma offers the charm of a friendly small-town suburb with the conveniences of city living. Home to around 63,000 residents (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com), Moore is the 7th-largest city in Oklahoma (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com) and continues to grow steadily each year. City leaders note that new residential developments – especially in Moore’s southeast – are fueling continuous, positive growth for the community (ON THE ROAD TO GROWTH: City of Moore Looks for Another Positive Year | Moore Monthly). Moore has evolved from a traditional “bedroom community” into a vibrant city in its own right, all while maintaining a warm, welcoming atmosphere ideal for families and young couples.

Community Lifestyle and Family Atmosphere

Moore prides itself on a family-focused, neighborly culture. Residents often remark that Moore has “older parts… but no real bad parts” – in other words, it’s a safe, close-knit community of good neighborhoods and great schools (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). In the 1970s, Moore even embraced a “Smile America” campaign, painting huge smiley faces on the town’s water towers; today a smile is part of the city’s logo, reflecting Moore’s friendly, optimistic spirit (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). Neighbors look out for each other here, and community pride runs deep.

Affordability is a major draw. The cost of living in Moore is about 9% below the U.S. average (Cost Of Living in Moore, OK), meaning your dollar stretches further. Housing costs in particular are a bargain – roughly 20% lower than national averages (Cost Of Living in Moore, OK) – and many families find they can afford a spacious home without breaking the bank. Meanwhile, household incomes are on par with or above U.S. norms (Cost Of Living in Moore, OK), so residents enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. Moore also boasts a relatively low crime rate, offering peace of mind and safety for raising children (one analysis noted Moore is safer than about 48% of cities in Oklahoma, which is above average for the region (5 Safe, Affordable Suburbs in OKC - YouTube)).

Above all, Moore’s family-friendly appeal is evident in everyday life. With a median age in the mid-30s, the city is full of young families (Moore, Oklahoma Population 2025 ). You’ll find children playing in the many parks, parents involved in school events, and numerous family-oriented community activities year-round (from holiday festivals to little league games). The town’s resilient, can-do spirit – forged through challenges like past storms – has created a tight-knit community that warmly welcomes newcomers.

Neighborhoods and Developments to Call Home

Whether you’re seeking a starter home or a new build with modern amenities, Moore offers a variety of neighborhoods perfect for families and young couples. Here’s a look at some key residential areas:

• West Moore (West of I-35) – This area features established neighborhoods with quiet, tree-lined streets and a high concentration of affordable starter homes. Many houses here are mid-century ranch styles or traditional single-family homes. Prices for west-side homes are often in the $125,000 to $175,000 range for a comfortable 3-bedroom starter, making it popular for first-time buyers (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). Residents enjoy a cozy community vibe, local parks, and quick access to nearby shopping along I-35.

• East Moore (East of I-35) – East of the interstate, you’ll find newer subdivisions and recently built developments that have sprung up over the past few decades. These neighborhoods offer modern floorplans and contemporary designs, often at still-affordable prices. Similar-sized homes on the east side typically sell in the $200,000 to $250,000 range (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). Young families are drawn to this side of town for its newer construction, many with sidewalks, playgrounds, and community covenants that keep the areas looking welcoming and well-kept.

• South Moore & New Communities – The southern end of Moore has seen exciting growth with upscale new developments popular with families. For example, Broadmoore Heights is a master-planned community featuring family amenities like a neighborhood pool and a stocked fishing pond; homes here range from the high $200Ks up into the $400K–$500K+ for larger models (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). Likewise, The Waters is another sought-after new subdivision, offering spacious 3–4 bedroom homes (many 1,900+ sq. ft.) in the upper price ranges for Moore (Communities | New Homes in Moore | Homes By Taber) (Communities | New Homes in Moore | Homes By Taber). In these southern communities, you’ll even find some large contemporary homes that approach the $500–$700K range (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com) – showcasing that Moore now provides options from entry-level to luxury. Despite the higher price tags, these areas remain a value when compared to similar homes in nearby big cities.

• Old Town Moore – At the heart of the city, Old Town is Moore’s historic downtown district around Main Street and Broadway. This area isn’t a “subdivision” per se, but it’s worth noting for its charming small-town character. Some families and young professionals enjoy living near Old Town to be within walking distance of cafes, shops, and community events. Housing here includes older, quaint homes (some renovated bungalows and cottages) that carry the character of Moore’s early days. Living near Old Town offers a blend of historic charm and easy access to the unique boutiques and eateries that line the downtown streets (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com).

No matter where you choose, Moore’s neighborhoods tend to be well-kept and community-oriented. Longtime residents and newcomers intermingle on friendly terms, and as one local realtor put it, “It’s a great neighborhood community” all across Moore (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com).

Housing Market Overview and Trends

Homebuyers will find that Moore’s real estate market is both affordable and diverse. The city’s housing stock ranges from 1960s and 70s single-story homes to brand-new builds in the latest developments. As noted, the average home value in Moore is around $225,000 – which is significantly lower than the Oklahoma City metro average ($264,000) and less than half the U.S. national average ($554,000) (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). In practical terms, this means you can get much more house for your money in Moore without sacrificing quality of life.

Types of homes available include predominantly single-family houses (often 3-4 bedrooms, with yards), a selection of townhomes and duplexes, and a growing number of new construction options. Young couples starting out might opt for a cozy 2-3 bedroom home in an established neighborhood, while growing families often move into the newly built 4-bedroom houses with open floor plans on the east side. There are even some apartment and condo complexes in Moore, but the market is largely focused on homes for sale, as homeownership is very attainable here.

Pricing trends: Over the past decade, Moore has seen a steady increase in home values, but at a modest pace. The city experienced a big growth spurt in the early 2000s, and again a rebuilding surge after 2013, yet prices remain reasonable. Entry-level homes (older properties or smaller new builds) can often be found well under $200K. Mid-range family homes (3 bed/2 bath in a nice subdivision) tend to list in the low-to-mid $200Ks. Higher-end properties with extensive square footage or premium features (e.g. in those south Moore communities) will list from the $300Ks upward. Overall, Moore’s housing is considered a buyer-friendly market: it’s not as volatile as coastal markets, and families can find quality homes without bidding wars. In fact, Moore’s housing affordability is a major reason many choose to relocate here (Cost Of Living in Moore, OK). Even new construction is within reach – with several builders active in the area, brand-new 3-bedroom homes start in the low $200Ks according to local listings (New Homes in Moore, OK | 156 Communities - NewHomeSource).

For those not ready to buy, rentals are available too. Many single-family homes are for rent, and there are modern apartment communities, particularly near the I-35 corridor. Median rent in Moore is around $990 per month for a standard apartment (Moving to Moore, OK | Living in Moore, OK), which is lower than the national average. This gives young professionals a chance to save up while enjoying a comfortable life in Moore. Whether renting or buying, residents benefit from the city’s high value-to-cost ratio in housing.

Outdoor Recreation and Parks

Families and outdoor enthusiasts will feel right at home in Moore, thanks to the city’s excellent parks, trails, and recreation facilities. Moore’s Parks & Recreation Department maintains over 300 acres of parkland around the city (Parks & Pavilions | City of Moore), ensuring that nearly every neighborhood has a green space nearby. Here are some highlights of Moore’s outdoor and sports amenities:

• Central Park & “The Station” Recreation Center: Moore’s flagship park is Central Park, located in the heart of town, which features a beautiful amphitheater, picnic areas, and walking paths. It’s also home to The Station at Central Park, a large modern recreation center that has something for everyone. At The Station you’ll find an indoor fitness center with a walking track, exercise rooms (even a cycling studio), and courts for basketball and other sports (About Bryant | Schools, Demographics, Things to Do - Homes.com). There’s also an outdoor aquatic center with multiple pools and water slides, plus a splash pad for little ones – perfect for cooling off in the summer heat. The adjacent playground has a fun miniature train theme, delighting kids with its locomotive-style play equipment (About Bryant | Schools, Demographics, Things to Do - Homes.com). Central Park’s amphitheater frequently hosts free concerts and movie nights in the summer, where families spread out blankets to enjoy live entertainment under the stars (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). This central gathering spot really exemplifies Moore’s community spirit and emphasis on family fun.

• Buck Thomas Park: This is Moore’s largest park, a 128-acre expanse dedicated to sports and active recreation. Buck Thomas Park offers over a mile of walking/jogging trails and even a small fishing pond for casual anglers (About Bryant | Schools, Demographics, Things to Do - Homes.com). For sports, it boasts baseball and soccer fields, tennis courts, a skate park for skateboarding enthusiasts, and sand volleyball. A big draw for pet owners is Happy Tails Dog Park, located within Buck Thomas – it has separate fenced areas for large and small dogs to run off-leash and play safely (About Bryant | Schools, Demographics, Things to Do - Homes.com). Buck Thomas Park is also the site of some city events (like the 4th of July festival) due to its spacious grounds. Whether you’re taking the kids to the playground, flying kites, or joining a weekend sports league, this park has facilities for all ages.

• Neighborhood Parks & Playgrounds: Scattered throughout Moore are numerous smaller parks, each with its own charm. Little River Park, for instance, has a pirate-themed playground that sparks kids’ imaginations, plus a splash pad and two little ponds where families can feed ducks or even do catch-and-release fishing with a state license (About Bryant | Schools, Demographics, Things to Do - Homes.com). Veterans Memorial Park is another beloved spot, featuring walking paths (recently upgraded with new signage and benches), memorial monuments, and open space for community gatherings (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). Many other parks – like Westmoore Trails Park, Fairmoore Park, Apple Valley Park, and more – offer features such as picnic pavilions, basketball courts, disc golf courses, and splash pads (Moore has several splash pad parks that are hugely popular in summer months) (Parks & Pavilions | City of Moore). In Moore, it’s easy to find a nearby playground or trail to enjoy an evening stroll or weekend picnic.

• Sports & Recreation Programs: Moore invests in recreational programs for all ages. The city runs youth sports leagues, fitness classes, and seasonal activities through The Station and the parks department. Whether your interest is youth soccer, an adult softball league, or Zumba classes at the rec center, you’ll find opportunities to stay active. The Station’s aquatic center also offers swimming lessons and hosts family swim nights during the summer (Aquatic Center | City of Moore). For those who enjoy golf, Moore doesn’t have its own municipal golf course, but several courses (like Earlywine Golf Club in S. OKC or The Trails in Norman) are a short drive away. And if you’re into boating or fishing on larger lakes, Lake Stanley Draper (a sizeable lake east of Moore) is only about 15 minutes away, offering boating ramps and trails, while the huge Lake Thunderbird near Norman is about a 30-minute drive for a full day of lake recreation. In short, Moore provides plenty of outdoor fun within the city and quick access to even more nature in the surrounding area.

Local Events and Festivals Year-Round

One thing newcomers quickly learn is that Moore loves to celebrate as a community. Throughout the year, the city and local organizations host family-friendly events, festivals, and traditions that bring residents together. Here are some of the annual events and festivities that brighten life in Moore:

• Spring “Easter in the Parks”: Each spring, the Parks & Recreation Department organizes citywide Easter egg hunts across multiple local parks. Families gather for egg hunts by age group, visits with the Easter Bunny, and other fun activities in the weeks leading up to Easter (Special Events | City of Moore). It’s a beloved tradition that signals the start of warmer weather. Around the same time, Moore kicks off outdoor programming like the Spring Marketplace (a craft and farmers’ market event) (Special Events | City of Moore) and Movie Nights in the Park once the evenings get pleasant (Special Events | City of Moore).

• Old Town Moore Summer Festivities: In early summer, Moore’s historic downtown shines during Old Town Days, an event celebrating the town’s heritage and community spirit. Typically held in June, Old Town Days features live music, food trucks, arts & crafts booths, and a classic car show amid the vintage storefronts of Main Street (About Bryant | Schools, Demographics, Things to Do - Homes.com). It’s a great way to experience Moore’s small-town charm – you can admire classic cars, shop local vendor tents, and enjoy local bands with your neighbors. Later in the summer, Moore’s Central Park hosts Food Truck Fridays or similar events, where a rotating roster of local food trucks set up at the Central Park pavilion and amphitheater (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). Residents come out on Friday evenings to sample a variety of foods – from BBQ to tacos to snow cones – and often enjoy free concerts in the park as part of the fun (Summer Events Guide | Moore Monthly). These summer evenings have a block-party atmosphere that’s perfect for families and young adults alike.

• Independence Day – “Celebration in the Heartland”: Every Fourth of July, Moore throws one of the metro area’s biggest patriotic parties. The Celebration in the Heartland festival on July 4th is held at Buck Thomas Park and offers a full day of food, music, and entertainment, capped off by a spectacular fireworks show. In fact, Moore’s Independence Day fireworks are known as one of the largest displays in the state (Celebration in the Heartland | TravelOK.com - Oklahoma's Official Travel & Tourism Site) – crowds line the park with lawn chairs and blankets to ooh and aah at the colorful sky around 9:45 pm. During the afternoon and evening, attendees enjoy dozens of food trucks, family games and inflatables, vendor booths, and live stage entertainment while kids run around safely. It’s a hallmark summer event that draws not just Moore residents but folks from neighboring OKC and Norman to celebrate together.

• Fall Community Events: As autumn rolls in, Moore continues to host community gatherings. The city often has a fall festival or Halloween event – for example, some years see an event like “Haunt Old Town” or a Trick-or-Treat night where local businesses hand out candy to costumed kids along Main Street. Schools get in the spirit too with fall carnivals. In October, families can also enjoy pumpkin patches and hayrides in nearby areas (just outside Moore). And sports fans relish the local football traditions: every year, Moore’s three high schools compete in the “Moore War” rivalry games; an alumni 5K race and tailgating festivities precede the big Moore vs. Westmoore game, bringing the community together to cheer on the hometown teams (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com).

• Holiday Season & Winter: The year concludes with festive winter events. In early December, Moore hosts its Christmas Parade of Lights, a joyous parade where community groups, schools, and even horseback riders deck out in twinkling lights and roll through downtown Moore (About Bryant | Schools, Demographics, Things to Do - Homes.com). It’s an enchanting small-town parade that often ends with Santa Claus greeting the crowd. There are also dazzling Christmas light displays – the city decorates Central Park with holiday lights, and neighborhoods often have friendly competitions for best decorations. Moore’s community centers may host Breakfasts with Santa or holiday craft fairs. And for New Year’s Eve, while Moore itself is relatively quiet, you’re only a short drive from the big First Night celebrations in OKC if you seek a larger fireworks or nightlife scene.

From spring to winter, these events foster a strong sense of community. New residents often find that attending a festival or volunteering at an event is a terrific way to meet neighbors and get involved. Moore’s calendar of events truly offers something for everyone, making you feel part of a vibrant community from the moment you arrive.

Dining and Shopping in Moore

Foodies and shoppers rejoice – Moore provides a rich array of dining options and retail therapy without needing to venture far. As a growing city, Moore has attracted many big-name stores and restaurants, yet it still maintains unique local flavors beloved by residents.

Local Dining Favorites: Moore’s dining scene covers everything from down-home cooking to international cuisine. Some locally-loved eateries to try include:

• Hidalgo’s Mexican Restaurant & Cantina – A top-rated spot for Tex-Mex favorites, known for its flavorful fajitas and friendly atmosphere (THE 10 BEST Restaurants in Moore (Updated April 2025) - Tripadvisor).

• Royal Bavaria Brewery & Restaurant – An unexpected gem in Moore, Royal Bavaria is an authentic Bavarian-style brewery and restaurant. Enjoy traditional German schnitzel, sausages, and their home-brewed beer in a rustic beer garden setting (THE 10 BEST Restaurants in Moore (Updated April 2025) - Tripadvisor) – a fun outing for couples on a date night or families looking for something different.

• Van’s Pig Stand – For Oklahoma-style barbeque, Van’s is a historic local BBQ joint (originating in 1930) that serves up hickory-smoked ribs, brisket, and their famous pig sandwiches with tangy sauce. It’s a casual must-try for BBQ lovers (and kids adore the pig-shaped neon sign!).

• The Candy Castle & Popcorn Palace – Satisfy your sweet tooth at this whimsical dessert shop in Moore, offering gourmet popcorn, hand-dipped ice cream, and old-fashioned candy. It’s a popular stop for families after an evening at the park (picture the delight on a child’s face walking out with a cone of blue ice cream or a bag of kettle corn).

• Other Eats: Moore also boasts great Asian cuisine (try Pho Lan for Vietnamese pho or Tsubaki for sushi), Italian and pizza (Falcone’s Pizzeria is a local favorite), American diners (local cafes for a hearty breakfast), and more. Plus, all the familiar fast-food and fast-casual chains are available when you need a quick bite. The city’s growth has brought more diversity in dining – you can even find specialty spots like a firefighter-themed grilled cheese restaurant or a Korean grocery cafe serving authentic dishes (About Bryant | Schools, Demographics, Things to Do - Homes.com). Whatever your palate, you’ll find something in Moore to hit the spot.

Shopping Conveniences: Moore provides plenty of shopping opportunities, meaning you won’t have to drive far for everyday needs or a bit of retail therapy. The primary shopping hub is along 19th Street and the I-35 corridor, where several shopping centers and big-box retailers are clustered (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). At the Shops at Moore and nearby centers, you’ll find national retailers like Target, Walmart, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Best Buy, and more (About Bryant | Schools, Demographics, Things to Do - Homes.com) – all the essentials for setting up a new home are right there. Grocery shopping is convenient too: Moore has multiple supermarkets (including Crest Foods, Walmart Neighborhood Market, and Aldi), and for bulk shopping, the city recently welcomed a brand-new Costco wholesale warehouse (ON THE ROAD TO GROWTH: City of Moore Looks for Another Positive Year | Moore Monthly) that has been a hit with residents.

For a more quaint shopping experience, Old Town Moore offers a handful of boutique shops and antique stores near Main Street (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). Here you can browse gift shops, a bookstore, clothing boutiques, and even a local hardware store that’s been around for decades. Moore also hosts seasonal farmers markets and the Spring Marketplace where local vendors sell fresh produce, crafts, and homemade goods – a great way to support local businesses.

Entertainment: In addition to dining and shopping, Moore has entertainment options to enjoy on a night out. The Yellow Rose Theater is a local dinner theater featuring live performances and music tribute shows with a meal. For movie buffs, Moore’s state-of-the-art Regal Warren Theatre (often just called “The Warren”) is a landmark – this luxury cinema offers balcony seating, a diner, and IMAX screens for the ultimate movie experience. It’s a favorite for both family matinees and date nights. And of course, whenever you crave even more choices, you’re only 10 minutes from the extensive dining and nightlife in Oklahoma City’s Bricktown or 10 minutes from Norman’s University Town Center area. But many Moore residents find they have everything they need right in town, from a variety of restaurants (regional chains and unique independents) to all the major shopping retailers for convenience (About Bryant | Schools, Demographics, Things to Do - Homes.com).

In short, Moore combines big-city convenience with hometown charm in its food and shopping scene – you can pick up a Costco haul in the morning, grab authentic street tacos for lunch, and dine at a family-owned steakhouse by evening without ever leaving the community.

Education: Schools and Learning Opportunities

Education is a cornerstone of Moore’s family-friendly appeal. The city is served by Moore Public Schools (MPS), one of the largest and most highly regarded school districts in Oklahoma. Families consistently cite the quality of Moore’s schools as a major reason for moving here.

Public Schools: Moore Public Schools is the 4th-largest school district in Oklahoma, educating over 25,000 students from Moore and parts of south OKC (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). Despite its size, the district maintains strong performance – it earns a solid “A” rating on Niche.com for its overall quality (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). The district operates a comprehensive network of schools, including 3 public high schools (Moore High, Westmoore, and Southmoore), 6 junior high schools, and 25 elementary schools spread throughout the city (Moore, Oklahoma - Wikipedia). This abundance of neighborhood schools means most kids can attend a school close to home.

Moore’s high schools are known for balancing academics, athletics, and community spirit. For example, Moore High School (the oldest of the three) is one of the largest high schools in the state with around 2,700 students (About Bryant | Schools, Demographics, Things to Do - Homes.com) and offers Advanced Placement courses, a wide range of extracurriculars, and strong sports programs (the Moore Lions). Westmoore and Southmoore High are newer, built as the population grew, and each has modern facilities and award-winning programs (the Westmoore Jaguars and Southmoore Sabercats are fierce rivals on the field, but all Moore schools share resources and pride). MPS emphasizes college and career readiness, with opportunities like AP classes, STEM initiatives, fine arts, and career-tech partnerships. Notably, Moore Schools have a community-supported philanthropic program called Moore Love, where each February students and staff raise funds for local charities – a testament to the community values instilled in students (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com).

For younger kids, Moore’s elementary and middle schools often earn high marks for their dedicated teachers and safe, nurturing environments. Many elementaries in Moore have specialized programs (some focus on STEM, some have Great Expectations model, etc.), and parent involvement is strong through active PTA organizations. Overall, parents moving to Moore can feel confident in the public education available – your children will have access to quality schooling and plenty of community support.

Private and Alternative Schools: In addition to public schools, Moore and the surrounding area offer several private education options. Within Moore, there are a handful of faith-based schools and academies. For example, All Saints Catholic School (affiliated with St. Andrew’s parish in Moore) serves roughly 400 students in Pre-K through 8th grade, providing a parochial education rooted in Christian values (Parish School - St. Andrew Catholic Church | Moore, OK). There’s also St. John’s Lutheran School and a few Christian academies that offer K-12 or preschool programs, which many local families appreciate for their small class sizes and moral instruction. Just south in Norman or north in OKC, even more private school options exist (from Montessori schools to college-prep academies), all within a reasonable commute for Moore residents. Additionally, Moore is part of the Moore-Norman Technology Center district – a vocational training school that high school students and adults can attend for specialized career programs (ranging from health sciences to automotive tech). For students needing alternative paths, MPS also has programs like Moore Virtual Academy and other support to ensure every child can succeed (VISTA Academy - Moore Public Schools).

Higher Education Access: While Moore itself doesn’t have a major university campus, it is ideally located for easy access to several higher education institutions:

• The University of Oklahoma (OU) in Norman is just 10 miles south of Moore (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com), roughly a 15-minute drive. OU is a large, Division I university offering a full spectrum of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Moore residents benefit by having OU’s opportunities so close – whether it’s attending college, enjoying cultural events like OU Sooners football games, or taking kids to the fantastic Sam Noble Museum of Natural History on campus, the proximity is a big perk.

• In Oklahoma City to the north (10–15 miles) are other colleges like Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC), which is actually very close on the OKC/Moore border and provides two-year degrees and continuing education. Also within commuting distance are Oklahoma City University, University of Central Oklahoma (in Edmond), Rose State College (Midwest City), and more – covering everything from liberal arts to engineering to nursing programs.

• Because of this, Moore is an excellent home base for students or academics. Some families with college-bound kids choose Moore to live in a quieter community while their child attends OU or another nearby school. And for adults, it’s easy to pursue additional degrees or certifications nearby while enjoying Moore’s affordability.

In summary, Moore offers strong education at all levels. Public schools are high-quality and community-oriented, private schools and special programs are available for those seeking them, and higher education is just a short drive away. For families, this means your children can thrive from preschool all the way through college with Moore as your home.

Commuting and Accessibility

One of Moore’s greatest advantages is its central location in the Oklahoma City metro area, which makes commuting and travel convenient for residents. Whether you work in downtown Oklahoma City, attend college in Norman, or frequently fly for business, Moore offers excellent connectivity:

• Proximity to Major Cities: Moore is situated directly between Oklahoma City and Norman. It’s only about 11 miles north to downtown Oklahoma City and 10 miles south to Norman (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). In practical terms, that’s roughly a 15-20 minute drive to either city center under normal traffic. This location is ideal for dual-income couples who might work in different cities (one in OKC, one in Norman, for example) – Moore serves as a convenient midpoint. It also means residents can easily enjoy the amenities of both larger cities (like OKC’s Bricktown entertainment district or Norman’s university vibe) without a long trek.

• Highway Access: The city is crisscrossed by major highways. Interstate 35 (I-35) is the primary north-south artery that runs through Moore, effectively bisecting the city into east and west halves (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). I-35 provides a straight shot into Oklahoma City (northbound) and down to Norman (southbound) and beyond. Just north of Moore’s boundary, you can connect to Interstate 240 (I-240), an east-west loop that leads toward Tinker Air Force Base to the east and toward the Will Rogers Airport to the west. For most Moore residents, daily commutes involve hopping on I-35 or I-240 – fortunately, these highways are multi-lane and well-maintained, keeping drive times reasonable. Additionally, U.S. Route 77 (Broadway) runs through Moore as a local thoroughfare parallel to I-35, and State Highway 37 touches Moore’s southern edge, offering another route west toward rural areas or east toward Lake Stanley Draper.

• Commute Times: Thanks to the highway infrastructure, the average commute for Moore residents is about 22 minutes (Moving to Moore, OK | Living in Moore, OK), which is quite manageable. Many people commute into Oklahoma City for work and report that even during rush hour the drive is typically under half an hour. Norman commutes are even shorter. Of course, like any growing area, certain intersections in Moore can get busy (for instance, around the 19th Street shopping corridor by I-35 during the evening rush). The city has been proactive about road improvements – projects like widening SW 149th Street and building a new 4th Street underpass at the railroad tracks are underway to improve traffic flow (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). These upgrades aim to eliminate bottlenecks and keep Moore’s local traffic moving smoothly.

• Airport Access: For air travel, Moore residents have quick access to Will Rogers World Airport, the state’s largest airport, located just about 12 miles away in southwest OKC (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). Typically it’s only a 15-20 minute drive up I-35 and west on I-240 to reach the airport – very convenient for business travelers or vacationers. You can easily take early morning flights without needing to leave super early. Moreover, being south of OKC, Moore residents can also reach Dallas/Fort Worth (a major international hub) in about 3 hours by car, but for most trips Will Rogers airport suffices with its growing list of nonstop flights.

• Public Transportation: It’s important to note that Moore currently has limited public transit options. The city itself does not have its own bus system or commuter rail. Oklahoma City’s transit service (EMBARK) runs a couple of bus routes in far North Moore along the city border, but these are designed to connect riders to OKC and don’t circulate through Moore’s neighborhoods (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). As a result, the vast majority of Moore residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The good news is that Moore is very driveable – traffic is not severe, parking is plentiful, and virtually every destination has easy road access. For those who cannot drive, there are some specialty services: programs like SoonerRide and Share-A-Fare assist seniors or those with disabilities in getting around (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). Meanwhile, city leaders have discussed possibilities of future transit options as Moore grows (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com), but for now, having a car (or carpool) is the primary way to navigate the area. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available in Moore for occasional needs.

• Commuting to Work & Major Employers: Many Moore residents commute to major employment centers nearby. Aside from downtown OKC’s many employers, Tinker Air Force Base (to the northeast) is a significant employer in the region – Moore is only ~20 minutes from Tinker’s gates, making it a popular living area for civilian contractors and military families who want a suburban lifestyle. Likewise, the University of Oklahoma in Norman (which employs over 18,000 people) is a major employer within an easy drive (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). Health care workers have options both north and south (the OU Health Center and hospitals in OKC, or Norman Regional Hospital to the south). In Moore itself, there is a growing number of jobs as well – the city has added office parks and large retail (for instance, the new Costco and some corporate offices bring more daytime jobs to Moore (ON THE ROAD TO GROWTH: City of Moore Looks for Another Positive Year | Moore Monthly)). Moore even has its own hospital, Norman Regional Moore, conveniently located off I-35 and SW 4th St for any local medical needs (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). Still, many households consist of commuters, and Moore’s location allows couples to work in different parts of the metro without living far apart.

In summary, accessibility is a big asset of Moore. You can live in a relaxed, suburban environment while being just minutes from urban centers and transportation hubs. Whether you’re commuting to work, driving the kids to school, or heading out on a road trip, Moore’s connectivity makes it easy. It’s one of those “best of both worlds” advantages – close to everything, but with a comfortable distance from the congestion of the city center.

What We Love Most About Moore

In Moore, it’s easy to find plenty of reasons to fall in love with the community. To wrap up this guide, here’s a quick recap of what we love most about Moore and why it’s such a special place to call home:

• Welcoming Small-Town Spirit: Moore offers a tight-knit, welcoming vibe where neighbors truly care. From the smiley-face water towers to community initiatives like Moore Love, the city’s friendly character shines through (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com) (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com). Newcomers quickly feel at home among Moore’s warm-hearted residents.

• Family-Friendly Lifestyle: This city was practically built for families and young couples. Excellent schools (with a district-wide “A” rating) (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com), safe streets, and tons of kid-friendly parks and events mean your family can thrive here. Whether it’s cheering at a Friday night football game or hunting Easter eggs in the park, family fun is always around the corner in Moore.

• Affordable Living, Beautiful Homes: Moore manages to keep living costs low while offering high quality of life. Housing is affordable (average home prices in the low $200Ks) (Moore, OK City Guide | About Living in Moore - Homes.com), so you can find your dream home without breaking the budget. From charming starter homes to brand-new builds, there’s a home for every stage of life – and property taxes and everyday expenses remain reasonable (Cost Of Living in Moore, OK).

• Parks, Recreation & Community Activities: It’s hard to beat Moore’s offerings when it comes to parks and recreation. The city’s numerous parks (300+ acres) (Parks & Pavilions | City of Moore), walking trails, and the fantastic Central Park & Station recreation complex ensure there’s always a place to play, exercise, or relax outdoors. Community events – summer concerts, festivals, holiday parades – keep the calendar filled with fun. In Moore, you’ll never be bored and you’ll often find yourself joining in the community celebrations that make this town feel so alive.

• Convenience & Location: Living in Moore means enjoying a peaceful suburban environment and easy access to the best of Oklahoma City and Norman. You’re only minutes away from major shopping centers (and Moore has plenty of its own), a short drive to downtown OKC’s jobs and nightlife, and just down the road from Norman’s university culture. The central location and highway connectivity make everything accessible – including the airport for those vacations or business trips. It’s the perfect blend of convenience without the congestion.

• Resilient, Forward-Thinking Community: Moore has a proud history and a bright future. Over the years the city has proven its resilience and ability to come together, emerging stronger after challenges. City leadership is proactive about growth and improvements – from attracting new businesses (like Costco and local offices) (ON THE ROAD TO GROWTH: City of Moore Looks for Another Positive Year | Moore Monthly) to investing in infrastructure and schools. This forward-thinking approach means Moore continues to get better every year, with an optimism that’s contagious to all who live here.

In the end, what we love most about Moore is the quality of life it offers. It’s a place where you can put down roots, join a caring community, and create lasting memories with your family. Moore combines the best aspects of Oklahoma – friendly folks, open spaces, and a spirit of community – with the modern amenities and opportunities that make life comfortable and enjoyable. We hope this guide has given you a glimpse of what makes Moore special. Welcome to Moore, and we can’t wait for you to experience the heart of our community that we cherish so much!