Top 12 Tulsa Neighborhoods For Expats & Digital Nomads

I never expected to fall for Tulsa, but this city completely won me over. After spending several weeks exploring Oklahoma’s second-largest city, I understand why digital nomads are flocking here. Between the gorgeous Art Deco architecture, incredible food scene, and the crazy affordable cost of living, the best places in Tulsa offer exactly what remote workers are searching for.

Take the Brady Arts District, where I spent my mornings working from cozy coffee shops and afternoons exploring galleries. Or Cherry Street, where I found myself dreaming of buying one of those charming craftsman homes for the price of a downpayment in California. From buzzing downtown spots to leafy suburban neighborhoods, here are the Tulsa areas that should be on your radar!

Best Places to Live in Tulsa for Digital Nomads & Expats

Looking for the best places to live in Tulsa for digital nomads & expats? Experience the suburban charm of Bixby, known for its parks and growing community. Enjoy the small-town feel with easy city access in Sapulpa. Settle in Sand Springs, offering outdoor adventures and a relaxed lifestyle. Consider Jenks, a vibrant area with great amenities and a thriving economy. Whether you seek convenience, nature, or a welcoming community, these are some of the top places to live in Tulsa for digital nomads & expats.

• Best for family living: Broken Arrow
• Best for upscale suburban lifestyle: Bixby
• Best for historical charm: Sapulpa
• Best for nature lovers: Sand Springs
• Best for shopping and dining: Jenks
• Best for community spirit: Owasso
• Best for balanced suburban life: Glenpool
• Best for scenic beauty and tranquility: Verdigris
• Best for small-town feel: Collinsville
• Best for peaceful rural living: Oakhurst
• Best for cultural richness: Claremore
• Best for serene suburban experience: Justice

1. Bixby

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,500 – $2,800
• 🌟 Unique Features: Top-rated schools 🏫, family-friendly parks 🌳, and a growing economy 📈
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: March – October ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, retirees 🏡, and nature lovers 🌿

Bixby is where small-town charm meets modern convenience, and it’s easy to see why people are flocking here. Nicknamed “The Garden Spot of Oklahoma,” this suburb is known for its lush landscapes, thriving farmers’ markets, and laid-back vibe. If you’re into fresh produce, the local farm stands here are next level.

But Bixby isn’t just about wide-open spaces—it’s got some of the best schools in the Tulsa metro, plus a growing restaurant scene that locals love. You can spend weekends fishing along the Arkansas River, hitting up Bentley Park, or grabbing BBQ at a family-owned joint. And when you need a taste of city life, downtown Tulsa is just a short drive away.

With its tight-knit community, beautiful scenery, and strong sense of local pride, Bixby gives you the best of both worlds—peaceful suburban living with city perks just around the corner.

2. Sapulpa

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,300 – $2,500
• 🌟 Unique Features: Historic Route 66 charm 🛣️, small-town feel 🏡, and local festivals 🎉
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: April – October 🌤️
• 🏆 Perfect For: History buffs 📜, families 👪, and commuters 🚗

Sapulpa is living proof that history and modern life can mix perfectly. Sitting along Route 66, this town has that classic small-town Americana feel, with brick-lined streets, local boutiques, and vintage architecture that make every stroll downtown feel like stepping into the past. But don’t be fooled—Sapulpa is growing fast, and it’s got everything you need.

From top-rated schools to parks like Kelly Lane Park, this town is built for families. Love the outdoors? Pretty Water Lake is a local favorite for fishing and kayaking. And if you’re into community events, Sapulpa doesn’t disappoint, with festivals and parades that bring everyone together.

The best part? You’re just a quick drive from Tulsa, so you get that peaceful, small-town atmosphere without missing out on city amenities. Whether you’re here for the history, the friendly neighbors, or just a slower pace of life, Sapulpa is easy to call home.

• Read next: 13 Beautiful Oklahoma Cabin Rentals

3. Sand Springs

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,400 – $2,600
• 🌟 Unique Features: Riverside parks 🌊, outdoor recreation 🚴, and a relaxed atmosphere 😌
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: May – September 🌞
• 🏆 Perfect For: Outdoor enthusiasts 🏕️, families 👨‍👩‍👧, and retirees 🏡

If having Keystone Lake in your backyard sounds like a dream, Sand Springs is calling your name. This Tulsa suburb is perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors, with endless opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. It’s the kind of place where weekends are spent exploring nature, but when you’re ready for a night out, Tulsa’s just a short drive away.

Sand Springs has a tight-knit, welcoming vibe, and locals take pride in their community. Every spring, the Herbal Affair & Festival transforms downtown into a hub of artisan vendors, food trucks, and live music. The historic main street has a mix of small businesses, cool antique shops, and local cafés that keep the small-town charm alive.

With great schools, a low cost of living, and some of the best access to outdoor adventures in the area, Sand Springs offers a balanced lifestyle that’s tough to beat.

4. Jenks

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,600 – $3,000
• 🌟 Unique Features: Thriving arts scene 🎭, top schools 🏫, and a growing job market 💼
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: March – October ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Young professionals 💻, families 👪, and culture lovers 🎨

Jenks is one of those places that just gets it right—a little bit of history, a little bit of modern charm, and a whole lot of community pride. Sitting along the Arkansas River, this town offers scenic views, great schools, and a downtown filled with antique shops, cafés, and local boutiques that give it that classic small-town feel.

One of Jenks’ biggest draws is the Oklahoma Aquarium, home to the largest collection of bull sharks in the world (yes, really). If you prefer land over sea, the Riverwalk offers awesome shopping, restaurants, and live music. And let’s not forget the Jenks America Food Truck Festival, which brings some of the best eats in Oklahoma right to the streets.

With a strong job market, a growing population, and an unbeatable community atmosphere, Jenks is the perfect mix of suburban comfort and city convenience—a place that feels like home from day one.

5. Owasso

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,500 – $2,800
• 🌟 Unique Features: Rapidly growing economy 🚀, excellent schools 🎓, and suburban charm 🏡
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: April – October 🌤️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, professionals 💼, and commuters 🚗

If you want big-city convenience with a small-town vibe, Owasso delivers. This fast-growing suburb has transformed into a shopping, dining, and entertainment hub, while still holding onto its friendly, close-knit community feel. Whether you’re browsing Smith Farm Marketplace, catching a concert at Redbud Festival Park, or grabbing local barbecue, there’s always something happening here.

Families love Owasso for its top-rated schools and safe neighborhoods, making it one of the most family-friendly places near Tulsa. There are plenty of parks and trails, plus an easy commute into the city if you work downtown. And when it’s time to unwind? The Golf Club of Oklahoma and Centennial Park offer plenty of green space to escape the daily grind.

Owasso is growing fast, but it’s doing it right—offering modern amenities, affordable living, and a strong community spirit. If you want a place that feels welcoming from day one, Owasso is a solid pick.

6. Glenpool

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,300 – $2,500
• 🌟 Unique Features: Affordable living 💰, expanding job market 🏗️, and friendly community 🤝
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: May – September ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Budget-conscious residents 💵, families 👪, and remote workers 💻

Glenpool might not be the biggest name in Tulsa’s metro, but don’t sleep on this fast-growing suburb. Known as the “City of Growth,” Glenpool is a community that’s booming with new businesses, schools, and housing developments, all while keeping that laid-back, small-town charm.

Its rich oil history (yep, this town helped fuel Oklahoma’s oil boom) is celebrated at Black Gold Park, a favorite spot for locals to walk, bike, and let the kids run wild. When you’re craving some city action, Tulsa is just 15 minutes away, but honestly, Glenpool has everything you need—local shops, great schools, and even a Costco, which, let’s be real, is a huge plus.

For families looking for affordable housing, a strong sense of community, and easy access to Tulsa, Glenpool is an underrated gem. It’s growing fast, so now’s the time to snag a spot before the secret’s out.

7. Verdigris

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,200 – $2,400
• 🌟 Unique Features: Peaceful rural setting 🌾, strong community ties 🤝, and outdoor activities 🏕️
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: March – October 🌞
• 🏆 Perfect For: Nature lovers 🌿, retirees 🏡, and those seeking tranquility 🧘

If you’re after quiet suburban living with wide-open spaces, Verdigris is calling your name. Nestled between Tulsa and Claremore, this town is perfect for anyone who wants a slower pace of life without feeling disconnected from the city.

Verdigris is all about community—the kind of place where neighbors actually know each other, and local events bring everyone together. It’s also home to some of the best schools in the area, making it a top choice for families. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the town’s green spaces, hiking trails, and quick access to Oologah Lake, a prime spot for boating, fishing, and camping.

Even with its peaceful setting, you’re still just a short drive from Tulsa’s big-city amenities. So if you want scenic beauty, strong schools, and a welcoming community, Verdigris gives you the best of both worlds—without the city noise.

8. Collinsville

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,300 – $2,500
• 🌟 Unique Features: Small-town charm 🏡, great schools 🎓, and proximity to Tulsa 🏙️
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: April – September ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, commuters 🚗, and community-oriented residents 🤝

Historic charm? Check. Small-town feel? Check. Growing community? Double check. Collinsville is one of those places that feels like home the second you arrive. It’s got that classic Main Street appeal, with locally owned shops, cozy cafés, and a community that genuinely cares about preserving its roots.

One of the biggest perks of Collinsville is its affordable cost of living, making it a great spot for first-time homebuyers and families. The schools here are highly rated, and the town’s proximity to both Tulsa and Owasso means you can enjoy the perks of city life without the crowds.

Locals love the annual Founders’ Day Festival, and if you’re into outdoor activities, you’ve got quick access to skiatook Lake and plenty of parks. Collinsville is proof that you don’t need to live in a big city to have a rich, fulfilling lifestyle—this town delivers charm, convenience, and community all in one package.

9. Claremore

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,200 – $2,400
• 🌟 Unique Features: Rich history 🏛️, home of Will Rogers 🤠, and scenic landscapes 🌄
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: March – October 🌤️
• 🏆 Perfect For: History lovers 📜, retirees 🏡, and students 🎓

History, culture, and small-town charm? Claremore has it all. Best known as the hometown of Will Rogers, this city blends rich heritage with modern convenience, making it one of the best places to live near Tulsa.

If you love historic districts and local events, Claremore won’t disappoint. Stroll through downtown’s antique shops and cafés, explore the Will Rogers Memorial Museum, or catch a show at the Robson Performing Arts Center. The town’s tight-knit community hosts events like the Bluegrass & Chili Festival, making it easy to feel at home.

For outdoor lovers, Claremore Lake is a prime spot for fishing, kayaking, and hiking. And if you work in Tulsa? No worries—it’s an easy 30-minute commute. With affordable housing, top-rated schools, and a welcoming atmosphere, Claremore delivers small-town living with big opportunities.

10. Justice

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,200 – $2,300
• 🌟 Unique Features: Rural escape 🌿, friendly community 🤝, and peaceful environment 😌
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: May – September ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Quiet living 🌳, retirees 🏡, and families 👨‍👩‍👧

If you want wide open spaces and a slower pace of life, Justice is your kind of place. This rural escape sits on the outskirts of Tulsa, offering peace, quiet, and plenty of room to breathe.

Here, it’s all about country living with modern perks. You’ll find large lots, farmland, and starry night skies, but you’re still close enough to Tulsa to enjoy city amenities. The town has a strong community vibe, with local events and a laid-back lifestyle that’s hard to find in bigger suburbs.

Justice is perfect for those looking to escape the city noise without sacrificing convenience. It’s a place where you can grow a garden, own some land, and enjoy a true sense of home. If tranquility, affordability, and small-town charm are at the top of your list, Justice might just be your perfect match.

11. Oakhurst

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,100 – $2,200
• 🌟 Unique Features: Affordable homes 🏡, quiet atmosphere 🌾, and close to Tulsa 🏙️
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: April – October 🌤️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Budget-conscious buyers 💰, retirees 🏡, and small-town lovers 🚜

Want to be minutes from Tulsa but still feel like you’re in the countryside? Oakhurst gives you the best of both worlds. This quiet suburb is a hidden gem, offering affordable homes, spacious yards, and a slower pace of life—all while being just a short drive from downtown.

Nature lovers will appreciate Oakhurst’s lush green spaces and nearby hiking trails, perfect for escaping the city rush. Despite its rural feel, you’re still close to shopping, dining, and entertainment in Tulsa, Sand Springs, and Sapulpa.

Oakhurst’s tight-knit community is one of its biggest draws—neighbors look out for each other, and the cost of living is refreshingly low compared to bigger suburbs. It’s the kind of place where you can sip coffee on your porch, wave to familiar faces, and enjoy life at a slower, more intentional pace.

12. Broken Arrow

• 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,500 – $2,800
• 🌟 Unique Features: Thriving local economy 📈, excellent schools 🎓, and family-friendly vibe 👪
• 📅 Best Time to Live There: March – October ☀️
• 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, professionals 💼, and suburban life seekers 🏡

If you want the perfect blend of suburban comfort and city convenience, Broken Arrow is where it’s at. As Oklahoma’s fourth-largest city, it offers top-rated schools, great shopping, and a thriving local economy, making it one of the most desirable places to live near Tulsa.

The Rose District, Broken Arrow’s lively downtown area, is packed with restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment options. Whether you’re grabbing brunch, enjoying live music, or strolling through seasonal festivals, there’s always something happening.

Families love Broken Arrow for its safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and endless parks and trails. Plus, it’s a quick 20-minute drive to Tulsa, so you get all the big-city perks without the big-city stress.

Broken Arrow is growing fast, and for good reason. If you’re after a well-rounded, family-friendly community with modern amenities, this is the place to be.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best Places to Live in Tulsa                           

Interested in learning more about Tulsa’s top living spots? Below are some frequently asked questions about the best places to settle in Tulsa.

What is a good area of Tulsa?

A good area of Tulsa depends on what you’re looking for. If you desire a family-friendly environment with excellent schools, South Tulsa and Broken Arrow are top choices. For those seeking vibrant nightlife and cultural experiences, Downtown Tulsa and the Cherry Street district stand out. Midtown Tulsa offers historic neighborhoods with charming homes, perfect for those who appreciate a blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences. Each area has its unique appeal, catering to different lifestyles and preferences.

Is Tulsa Oklahoma a good city to live in?

Yes, Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a great place to live. It’s famous for its affordable cost of living, diverse and friendly communities, and rich cultural scene. Tulsa boasts an array of green spaces like the Gathering Place and numerous trails, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The city also offers a vibrant arts and music scene, alongside unique historical sites. With its combination of economic opportunities, quality education, and low crime rates, Tulsa is an attractive option for individuals and families alike.

Is Tulsa expensive to live?

Tulsa is generally not expensive compared to many other U.S. cities. It’s popular for having an affordable cost of living, which includes housing, utilities, groceries, and transportation. Housing costs in Tulsa are particularly reasonable, with options ranging from downtown apartments to suburban homes. Additionally, Tulsa’s utility and transportation costs tend to be lower than the national average. This affordability makes Tulsa an attractive place for those looking for a high quality of life without the high costs often associated with larger cities.

What is the most expensive neighborhood in Tulsa?

The most expensive neighborhood in Tulsa is typically Midtown, particularly the areas of Maple Ridge and Utica Square. These neighborhoods are famous for their luxurious homes, historic architecture, and beautifully landscaped streets. The proximity to downtown Tulsa, along with the abundance of upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options in the area, adds to their appeal and value. Additionally, the Brookside area, with its trendy shops and restaurants, also ranks as one of the pricier neighborhoods in Tulsa.

What rank is Tulsa in crime rate?

Tulsa’s ranking in crime rate varies depending on the specific type of crime and the source of the data. However, it’s generally known that Tulsa has higher crime rates compared to some other cities in the United States, particularly in terms of property and violent crimes. It’s important to note that these rates can vary significantly by neighborhood. Areas like Downtown and South Tulsa often have lower crime rates compared to other parts of the city. It’s always advisable for residents and potential movers to check recent local statistics and trends for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

What is Tulsa most known for?

Tulsa is most famous for its rich art deco architecture, a vivid reminder of its prosperous oil industry past, often referred to as the “Oil Capital of the World.” The city is also famous for its vibrant arts scene, exemplified by landmarks like the Philbrook and Gilcrease museums. Tulsa’s music heritage, particularly in the country and jazz genres, is another significant aspect, with the historic Cain’s Ballroom being a notable venue. Additionally, the city’s beautiful parks, especially the expansive Gathering Place, have garnered national attention. Tulsa’s blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty make it a unique and noteworthy city.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Live in Tulsa  

Tulsa, a city that beautifully weaves together the threads of history, culture, and modern living, offers a diverse tapestry of lifestyles fitting for anyone’s taste. From the bustling streets of Downtown Tulsa to the serene suburbs like Broken Arrow and Owasso, each area of this vibrant city holds its unique allure.

For those seeking affordability without compromising on quality, neighborhoods like Jenks and Bixby offer a perfect balance. These areas are proof that living in Tulsa can be both budget-friendly and rich in amenities. Meanwhile, if the vibrancy and dynamism of city life are what you seek, Tulsa’s urban centers offer a plethora of opportunities for professional growth and cultural immersion.

Happiness and quality of life are cornerstones in Tulsa, with communities like Claremore and Verdigris being some of the most livable cities in Tulsa. These places offer a harmonious blend of outdoor activities and urban amenities, ensuring a well-rounded lifestyle.

So, when considering where to live in Tulsa, the answer is as varied and vibrant as the city itself. Whether you’re attracted to Tulsa for its career opportunities, scenic beauty, or rich cultural tapestry, one thing is certain: Tulsa is more than just a city – it’s a place where life is lived fully and joyously.