The Historic Water Tower in Blanchard, Oklahoma.

9 Safest Towns In Oklahoma For Senior Living

Boasting one of the lowest living costs in the U.S., Oklahoma offers retirees a relaxed, affordable lifestyle amid rolling plains, scenic lakes, and rich cultural history. The Sooner State features easy access to fresh produce, top-notch healthcare, and outdoor recreation, making it an appealing destination for senior living. While safety varies, many towns offer peaceful, welcoming environments with low crime rates and excellent amenities. From the riverside charm of Bixby to the small-town warmth of Tuttle, discover nine of the safest towns in Oklahoma where you can enjoy your golden years with peace of mind.

Bixby

Harmony Bridge in Bixby, Oklahoma at night.
Harmony Bridge in Bixby, Oklahoma at night.

Aside from neat, relatively safe neighborhoods, Bixby boasts fantastic proximity to Tulsa (downtown Tulsa is only 25 minutes down the road), a wonderful school system, and great restaurants, especially if you love that slow, midweek brunch. Of course, proximity to Tulsa means fantastic healthcare provided by Saint Francis Hospital, meaning there is no need to worry about driving long hours to reach a well-equipped hospital, complete with top-notch MRI machines.

Seniors will adore Carmichael's Pumpkin Patch, a tradition that goes back more than 40 years and is among the greatest fall outings in the region. Moreover, you will enjoy picking fresh strawberries at Joe’s Farm or floating down the Arkansas River for an outdoor experience. At a slower pace, the Washington Irving Memorial Park and Arboretum, with its many shade trees, is a fantastic place for brisk, early-morning walks. The average home value in Bixby is $312,178 (February 2025), which is $40,000 less than the national average.

Tuttle

Quaint countryside homes in Tuttle, Oklahoma.
Quaint countryside homes in Tuttle, Oklahoma.

Tuttle is a safe, peaceful town just outside of Oklahoma City, known for its small-town atmosphere, homey feel, and easy access to essential amenities. Retirees who enjoy nature and animals will love visiting Tiger Safari Zoological Park, home to some of the rarest big cats in Oklahoma. Seniors who appreciate a fine glass of wine can make Coal Creek Vineyard & Winery a regular destination. And for those with a sweet tooth, Braum’s Dairy Farms, headquartered in Tuttle, is a local favorite known for fresh ice cream and dairy products.

With Oklahoma City just a short drive away, retirees have access to a wide range of medical facilities, including INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center, a Patient Safety Excellence Award winner. This means seniors don’t have to worry about long travel times for top-notch medical care. The average home value in Tuttle is $303,000, making it a great option for those looking for a relaxed retirement close to a central metro area.

Alva

Sunny view of the campus of Northwestern Oklahoma State University at Oklahoma
Sunny view of the campus of Northwestern Oklahoma State University at Oklahoma in Alva.

If you want it all quiet and laid back, Alva is the perfect Oklahoma retirement destination. Alva is a small pastoral town, mostly surrounded by countryside. Therefore, expect your relationship with neighbors to be on a first-name basis in a town that is way safer than your average Oklahoma town. On healthcare access, there is the highly rated Share Medical Center, which has been providing medical services to area residents since 1970.

So, how will a retiree be spending her time in Alva? The nearby Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge is a well-known birder’s paradise and an enjoyable place for digging for crystals. Meanwhile, golfers have the well-maintained Alva Golf and Country Club, a scenic course next to the Salt Fork of the Arkansas River. Considering it boasts an average home value of just $90,460, Alva is the most affordable town on this list. So, retirees can buy their dream home without having to break the bank here.

Newcastle

Newcastle Casino in Newcastle, Oklahoma.
Entrance to Newcastle Casino in the town of Newcastle, Oklahoma. By Kym Koch Thompson - Flickr: Newcastle Casino 1, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons.

Newcastle is a small, tight-knit community with the energy of a town that continues to grow. It is known for Newcastle Casino, which opened in 1998 and is one of the most popular gaming destinations in Oklahoma, offering plenty of entertainment for retirees who enjoy an occasional night out. Beyond gaming, Newcastle has essential conveniences like a well-regarded animal hospital, a small but well-stocked library, and a local Walmart for everyday shopping needs. The 1,000-mile Canadian River runs near the town and provides a peaceful outdoor escape for boating and fishing enthusiasts.

One of Newcastle’s biggest advantages is its proximity to Oklahoma City, which means retirees have quick access to world-class medical facilities, shopping centers, and entertainment. The average home value in Newcastle is $289,134, making it a great choice for those who want an affordable destination near the big city. Thanks to the amenities, over 15% of locals are over the age of 65, indicating a strong social environment for seniors.

Checotah

Buildings in Checotah, Oklahoma.
Rustic buildings in the downtown area of Checotah in Oklahoma. By John Phelan - Own work, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons.

Checotah is a safe, small town that moves at its own pace, offering a relaxed, community-oriented lifestyle. While it may seem quiet, it has everything retirees need, including a Dollar Tree for quick errands, a 12-lane bowling alley with a full-service restaurant (Fast Lanes Bowling), and even a Taco Bell for a familiar treat. One of Checotah’s biggest draws is its proximity to Lake Eufaula State Park, providing plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and peaceful nature walks.

The town’s slower lifestyle and low crime rate make it a great choice for retirees looking to escape the hustle of bigger cities. For healthcare, Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee is less than 30 minutes away, ensuring easy access to quality medical care. The average home value in Checotah is $117,000, making it an affordable and comfortable place to settle down.

Weatherford

A painting in Heritage Park in Weatherford, Oklahoma.
A scenic painting in Heritage Park in the town of Weatherford, Oklahoma. Editorial credit: Magic Alberto / Shutterstock.com

Many retirees love college towns because they are often vibrant, diverse, and so full of life. If this describes you, start scoping for property in Weatherford. You will be at the doorstep of Southwestern Oklahoma State University, which was established in 1901 and is among the best universities in the South. The beautiful Foss State Park, an excellent area for boating and fishing, is less than 30 minutes to the east. It’s a package that comes with a lake, a rustic campground, and a beach for swimming. Closer to town, Rader Park is a lovely retreat with a fishing hole, golf club, and walking trails.

For healthcare, a retiree can access the Weatherford Regional Hospital, which has been operating since 1950. The average Weatherford home value is $211,292, a steal compared to the national average of $355,000. Those not interested in buying a home can opt for senior living communities like the Estates of Weatherford and the nearby Corn Heritage Village. They offer independent and assisted living options with trained nursing staff.

Mustang

Mustang, Oklahoma
The water tower at Mustang, Oklahoma. Editorial credit: Grossinger / Shutterstock.com.

To retire in Mustang means enjoying the perks of Oklahoma City without dealing with the daily congestion of city life. This town is known for its strong sense of community, with annual festivals like Mustang Western Days and regular events such as Food Truck Fridays, which bring neighbors together for fun and entertainment. Regarding attractions, Wild Horse Park is a local favorite, offering a fishing pond, walking trails, and open green spaces where retirees can relax or stay active. For those who love the water, Lake Overholser is just a short drive away, providing opportunities for boating, birdwatching, and scenic strolls.

The average home value in Mustang is $268,000, making it an attractive and affordable choice for retirees seeking both convenience and comfort. Nearly 15% of the 23,000 locals are above the age of 65, so there is always someone like-minded to spend time with. Also, with Oklahoma City nearby, there is no shortage of amenities for retirees.

Skiatook

The coast along Skiatook Lake in Oklahoma.
The coast along Skiatook Lake in Oklahoma. By John from USA - Skiatook Lake Morning 6/25/06, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons.

For retirees who love lakeside living, Skiatook is a dream destination. Located near Skiatook Lake, the town offers breathtaking sunset views and ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and lakeside relaxation. Tall Chief Cove Recreation Area is a favorite among locals, featuring a sandy beach and peaceful picnic spots. Meanwhile, CrossTimbers Marina provides cozy lakefront cottages that make for a perfect weekend retreat.

Despite its quiet, nature-filled setting, Skiatook offers plenty of modern conveniences, including a Walmart, a municipal airport, and an excellent animal clinic. The town is just 15 miles from Owasso, home to the award-winning Ascension St. John Owasso Hospital. If specialized medical care is needed, Tulsa is only a short 30-minute drive away. With an average home value of $253,000, Skiatook is a great option for retirees looking to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle near the water while staying close to healthcare and essential services.

Blanchard

City Hall in Blanchard, Oklahoma.
View of the city hall in Blanchard, Oklahoma. By DanFromOklahoma - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons.

As a retiree in Blanchard, the spots to fall in love with start at Crystal Lake Walking Trail, a quiet, well-paved space for early-morning walks. For more outdoor fun, one can spend time at the well-groomed Lions Park, which often hosts the annual Blanchard Bluegrass Festival. Moreover, downtown Oklahoma City is so close that you can drive down on a whim. There is also the Winter Creek Golf & Social Club, whose greens and fairways evidently receive some tender, loving care.

With its proximity to Oklahoma City, there is no shortage of medical facilities that one can access in a blink. Moreover, the town is also home to Senior Village Healthcare Center, which offers skilled nursing, therapy, and long-term care so seniors can rest easy when it comes to healthcare. Moreover, the Blanchard Senior Center provides meal programs, transportation assistance, and weekly events for a wonderful retirement experience. The average home value in Blanchard is $297,301, ideal for those on a budget.

The Takeaway

The best part about retirement is to finally log out of the rat race; no more pressure to get ahead or to do well on an upcoming performance review. You can wake up at 10.00 am, have a delicious midweek brunch at a downtown restaurant, and spend the rest of the day in a picturesque golf club. Although Oklahoma is not known to be among the safest states, several towns challenge that perception. From Bixby to Newcastle, you can retire here with peace of mind.

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