10 Best Independent Living Communities in Oklahoma City, OK
Oklahoma City attracts aging seniors with its Southern charm, affordable cost of living, and abundance of activities, luxuries, and senior living communities. Known for its thriving cowboy culture and Native American heritage encapsulated in a modern metropolitan environment, Oklahoma City — also known as OKC — is a perfect fit for fun-loving retirees. Oklahoma City independent living communities enable seniors to live a vibrant social life, free of the worries of homeownership.
This all-inclusive guide highlights 14 of our independent living partners in a 15-mile radius of downtown Oklahoma City. This radius includes partners in surrounding suburbs like Del City, Edmond, Bethany, and Norman. Throughout this guide, you’ll learn about independent living in OKC with information on costs, ways seniors pay, apartment regulations, and resources for seniors in the area. You’ll have all you need to make an informed decision and get a sense of what it’s like to retire in OKC.
Oklahoma City Independent Living Facilities | 893 Reviews
The care/concern was much much better than anticipated, the available activities were a nice bonus , the shared meals were a blessing, the rooms were clean. We would recommend a place for mom and village on...
Great food, quiet atmosphere, friendly people both residents and staff. Lots of activities. Just a perfect place to call home. Price is right compared to other places. Who could ask for more! I stay as busy...
It's been fine so far. Would like transportation provided but that's about it. People and staff are friendly. Activities are all nice- rooms are comfortable and really like all the kitchen cupboards. Safety...
My loved one was previously a resident at Sommerset Neighborhood Assisted Living and Memory Care and it was a very good experience. The staff were very helpful with the move in process. They are very...
From our first walkthrough to moving in to mom living there we have been very pleased with our experience. [name removed] and [name removed]have been very helpful and very welcoming. The facility is always...
Our experience has been good. Sure there has been a few hitches but nothing great. Our manager is fantastic. My main concern is security. Was supposed to repair the front gates. Not done. Heard they...
From our first appointment with [name removed], Legend staff were extremely helpful and assisted our family in transitioning our dad from skilled nursing to memory care. The occupational, physical and speech...
What we like the most about Southwest Mansions is that food is part of their plan as well as numerous activities, and front desk help 24/7. We would absolutely recommend this community to other families...
5's all around. I like the fact that it's an age in place facility And their levels of around the clock care. As well as the cleanliness and general upkeep of the building
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The Harrison of Oklahoma City Assisted Living and Memory Care
10801 S May Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73170
Stay on top of promises. Make sure your love one has someone verifying what is being done. I would recommend HarborChase of South Oklahoma City, just make sure to stay on top of things!
It was a great place for my Mom's final days. At times they were understaffed so calls weren't answered very promptly. Never experienced messes or bad odors. Mom loved those ladies. Way better than the...
I highly recommend quail ridge no retirement/assisted living places are perfect but Quail Ridge is the best one I know. Very clean good house keeping for residents very clean beautiful pool and dining...
I recently had the opportunity to experience SaddleBrook Assisted Living and Memory Care and I am genuinely impressed by the exceptional quality of care provided. From the moment I arrived, it was evident...
I haven't been there for meals, but the staff is awesome and it's always clean. I highly recommend this facility and have actually visited with others who have or has had someone in this particular facility....
All would be a 5 for us. [name removed] was so happy being there. The staff loved her and us. They knew us by name and knew her so well that they would give us a call if they felt she was having a bad day or...
I really think that they need to have more staff where she is in the memory care part of the facility. I would recommend Glade Avenue for the price.
The care services were good. The food was good. We picked this community because, it was close to our home, and we liked the apperance of the facility. My loved one was here was respite care. They were very...
My Aunt moved into Epworth Villa in Independent Living in 2011 and progressed to Assisted Living, Long-Term Nursing Care and Hospice where she passed away in 2024. She made a ton of friends and participated...
The only one that is hard to evaluate is Activities. [name removed] has not joined any. Not sure if it's lack of choice or he just doesn't want to. He does invite us to the dinner events: bingo,...
Arbor House was a very nice facility. My mother enjoyed her time there. Unfortunately, she passed away in February. They were all very helpful and kind.
We've experienced some problems but they have worked to fix them. All the staff have been very friendly. The food could be better. That's our biggest complaint. But I think they try to make food that...
When we were visiting and comparing communities, the first thing that attracted us was their location (convenient to where we live), but their pricing was good once we started getting deeper into the search....
The grounds are beautiful and the apt. Is also beautiful. It's a wonderful location in NW OKC. They tell you the rent will only go up no more than 5 % . That has not been the case. It raised as much as 10...
They could improve on staff to family member communication on routine matters. I need to be more proactive as well in asking questions. I love that they have a level of care in between assisted living and...
Our methodology
How we rank order the Oklahoma City community options above
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Oklahoma City community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:
- Proximity to your search location
- Availability of recent, high-quality reviews
- The amount of detailed community information available
Where we source our information
14,000+ communities
We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information
350,000+ reviews
We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities
- Costs of independent living in the Oklahoma City area
- What families are saying about independent living in Oklahoma City
- How people pay for independent living in Oklahoma City
- Understand Oklahoma laws and regulations for independent living communities
- What to expect from independent living in Oklahoma City
- Oklahoma City independent living services and amenities
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Oklahoma City? Highlights for seniors
- Health care for seniors in Oklahoma City
- Transportation for seniors in Oklahoma City
- Public transportation options in Oklahoma City
- Senior activities in Oklahoma City
Costs of independent living in the Oklahoma City area
The average rent in an Oklahoma City independent living community starts at $2,683 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data in 2022-2023.[01] The price only includes rental fees and doesn’t include any extra fees for add-on services.
Cost breakdown for Oklahoma City independent living
The price for an independent living community varies depending on add-ons, amenities, apartment size, services, and location. For example, our market median prices data shows that a private studio in an independent living community starts at about $2,400, while a two-bedroom is about $3,050 monthly.[01]
These starting baseline rental costs for independent living communities can include a lot. The following costs are typically rolled into the baseline monthly rent:
- Rent and meals
- Some or all utilities, like electric, trash, water, etc.
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- Transportation for off-site activities, grocery shopping, or errands
- Concierge services
- Scheduled activities and events
- Access to all on-site amenities, like gyms, pools, game rooms, etc.
Additional fees can increase your monthly rent. Common add-on fees for Oklahoma City independent living communities can include the following:
- One-time community fee
- Pet rent
- Parking fee
- Second-person fee
Below are independent living baseline monthly costs to help you compare with nearby cities. These costs don’t include additional fees for add-on services.
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Oklahoma City, OK vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Oklahoma City, OK vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Oklahoma City vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Independent Living in Oklahoma City, OK by room type
What families are saying about independent living in Oklahoma City
Recent reviews for independent living in Oklahoma City
Touchmark at Coffee Creek in Edmond, OK
Brookdale Edmond Danforth
Legend at Council Road in Oklahoma City, OK
Reviews mention these favorite features of communities
How people pay for independent living in Oklahoma City
Most retirees use a combination of private income sources — like savings — and public benefits — like veterans benefits — to help cover the cost of senior living. Medicaid and Medicare will not help cover independent living room and board costs, since independent senior living facilities are not senior care communities. However, you can use these benefits for medically necessary care costs. In this section, you’ll learn about different ways to pay for independent living and senior medical expenses through private pay, veterans benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare.
Initially, you should assess what type of private income sources you have that can help pay for some or all of your independent living costs. When deciding how to pay for independent living privately, many seniors start by looking at their savings, Social Security benefits, pensions, and investment returns. The following are other ways seniors typically pay for their ideal independent living community:
Approximate number of veterans currently living in Oklahoma City
Percentage of Oklahoma City veterans aged 55 and older
If you’re a veteran or surviving spouse, you may qualify for veterans benefits, which can help pay for independent living. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has extensive benefits, like the Veterans Pension and the Aid and Attendance benefit. These benefits can help senior veterans and their surviving spouses receive additional sources of income to help with anything that improves their quality of life. The Aid and Attendance benefit is a disability benefit that can be added to the Veterans Pension and can provide a significant amount of assistance. Additionally, Oklahoma has specific state veterans benefits that may help you save on taxes, with options for exemption of the following:
- Property tax
- Sales tax
- Retirement benefits
Do I qualify for veterans benefits?
Before applying for veterans benefits, you should verify what type of assistance you’re eligible for. Since there’s an extensive list of eligible conditions, you’ll likely qualify for some benefits. Your local veterans service organizations (VSOs) can help you fully understand eligibility requirements and related disabilities that may help you qualify for benefits. These VA-vetted organizations will help you apply for benefits, file claims, and even appeal denied claims. The resources below can get you connected to these organizations.
You can also find other local resources through Oklahoma’s veterans assistance locator VALOR — also referred to as OKVALOR. At first, this system may be difficult to understand, so here is a step-by-step guide on how to operate VALOR:
- First, click on OKVALOR.
- Then, enter your community’s address on the OKVALOR Resource Proximity Search and adjust the radius to see closer resources.
- Lastly, OKVALOR will create a list of resources near you, or you can click on the triangles on the map within that radius.
If you need additional help, you can click FEATURES anytime. This will help walk you through VALOR’s features and how you can find local resources.
Resources for Oklahoma City veterans
Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs
2132 NE 36th St.
Oklahoma City, OK 73111
Local phone: 405-523-4000
Toll free phone: 888-655-2838
Fax: 405-523-4008
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Appointment and walk-in hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA)
Mid-America Chapter PVA
6108 NW 63rd St., Suite A
Oklahoma City, OK 73132-7526
Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA)
VVA Chapter #291
Phone: 405-608-0449
Email: chris.chaney1@hotmail.com
SoonerCare, Oklahoma City’s Medicaid program, helps low-income families and individuals receive health insurance coverage. SoonerCare can cover various medical services, from personal care services to diabetic supplies. While SoonerCare will not cover rental costs in an independent living community, it can help cover medically necessary in-home health care services through home and community based waiver programs.
What services are covered by home and community based waivers?
The home and community based waiver, ADvantage waiver program, helps eligible seniors aged 65+ and individuals with physical disabilities. This program helps cover health care services in the senior’s home or residential setting of your choice, like a senior living community. It enables Medicaid to provide the following types of health care services in a home or community living setting:
- Personal caregiver services
- Skilled nursing care services
- Adult day health services
- Case management services
- Rehabilitative services like occupational, physical, and speech therapy
- Respiratory therapy
- Hospice care
- Respite care
- Medical equipment
- Environmental modifications for the home
The ADvantage waiver program is made to keep those requiring nursing home care from moving into a nursing facility. You must need a nursing home level of care to qualify.
What is a nursing facility level of care?
The definition of nursing home level of care varies from state to state. An Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) nurse must complete a Uniform Comprehensive Assessment Tool (UCAT) III assessment to determine whether you need a nursing facility level of care. For you to be eligible, you must meet UCAT criteria, which include but is not limited to the following:[03]
- You have a physical, mental, or functional impairment.
- You need professional nursing care and supervision.
- You need care to prevent the deterioration of your physical health.
What other types of services are available to seniors?
SoonerCare recipients may be eligible for the Medicaid service State Plan Personal Care, which helps seniors receive in-home assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs). If you don’t qualify for ADvantage, Oklahoma’s Department of Human Services (OKDHS) provides several other options for assistance through their Community Living, Aging, and Protective Services (CAP) programs. For example, adult day services are available for eligible seniors aged 60+ and those with disabilities who don’t qualify for ADvantage Waiver Program or are waiting for coverage.
How do I know if I am eligible for SoonerCare?
Since there’s an extensive list of SoonerCare programs, it can take time to understand what you may qualify for. Therefore, before you start the application process, you should contact local resources like the Department of Medicaid offices and the local areawide aging agency to help you fully understand SoonerCare benefits. You can also use OKC’s community resource line to find Medicaid help. Below you can find links to additional information on potential Medicaid benefits.
Oklahoma City resident Medicaid resources
Department of Medicaid office
Oklahoma Health Care Authority
4345 N. Lincoln Blvd.
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
Areawide Aging Agency, Inc.
4101 Perimeter Center Drive, Suite 310
Oklahoma City, OK 73112-5910
Phone: 405-942-8500
Community Living, Aging, and Protective Services (CAP)
Phone: 405-521-2281
Fax: 405-521-2086
Help with Medicaid questions and finding resources
Call 2-1-1, or text your zip code to 898-211
Medicare is a federal program that helps seniors aged 65+ and disabled individuals receive health insurance coverage. Like Medicaid, Medicare doesn’t cover independent living room and board costs. Instead, Medicare can help cover medical expenses, such as the following:
- In-home health care
- Hospital stays
- Skilled nursing services
- Prescription drugs
- Doctors’ visits
- Hospice care
- Rehabilitative care
How can the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) help cover independent living?
Eligible seniors aged 55+ can access low-cost health care services through the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). PACE is offered through both Medicaid and Medicare. This program can provide the following kinds of services:
- Home care
- Rehabilitative care
- Hospice care
- Medically necessary transportation
- Prescription drugs
- Wellness therapies
- Meals and nutritional counseling
- Adult day care
- Nursing home care, if needed
What type of assistance is available for Medicare costs?
Oklahoma assists with Medicare premium costs through the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA). MIPPA helps low-income Medicare recipients with the following programs:
- Extra Help, for Medicare Part D, prescription coverage, costs
- Medicare Savings Program, for lower Medicare premium costs, as well as diabetes supplies and services
How do I apply for Medicare?
Similar to other benefits, Oklahoma has local resources to guide you through Medicare benefits and the extensive application process. The local Social Security and Department of Medicaid offices offer a helping hand to Medicare recipients. The Oklahoma Insurance Department can also help seniors understand their Medicare benefits with their nonprofit organization — Senior Health Insurance Counseling Program. The local long-term care ombudsman also supports seniors by advocating for their rights to access their long-term care benefits. You can also use the local community resource line to find more information on benefits and other helpful services in OKC.
Oklahoma City resident Medicare resources
Oklahoma City Social Security office
12301 N. Kelley Ave.
Oklahoma City, OK 73131
Phone: 866-331-2207
TTY Phone: 800-325-0778
Fax: 833-950-3005
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Current long-term care ombudsman contact
Name: Bill Whited
Phone: 405-521-2281
Fax: 405-522-6739
General information and assistance for seniors
Phone: 800-211-2116
Local MIPPA coordinator
Name: Debra Shadid
Phone: 405-212-7910
Email: Debra.CTR.Shadid@okdhs.org
Community Living, Aging, and Protective Services (CAP)
Phone: 405-521-2281
Fax: 405-521-2086
Help with Medicare questions and finding resources
Call 2-1-1, or text your zip code to 898-211
Understand Oklahoma laws and regulations for independent living communities
Since independent living facilities are not considered senior care facilities, the state doesn’t regulate them. Instead, independent living communities in Oklahoma City typically follow general apartment laws and regulations.
What are independent living age requirements?
All of our independent living partners in Oklahoma City have a minimum age requirement. This means independent living communities may require you to be above a certain age, typically 55, 62, or 65. Keep in mind the age requirement varies between communities.
What are apartment regulations in Oklahoma City?
Apartments, or rental complexes like independent living communities, have strict requirements to ensure the safety and health of residents. State apartment regulations require that landlords provide residents with a safe, clean, and habitable living environment and access to the following utilities:[04]
- Heating
- Air conditioning
- Running water
- Hot water
- Trash removal
- Smoke detector(s)
In addition to maintaining the above utilities, Oklahoma landlords must keep the following in good condition:
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- Sanitary
- Ventilation
Landlords must repair any issues in the apartment and provide a 24-hour notice before entering your unit unless it’s an emergency.[04]
Are storm shelters required in independent living facilities?
No, storm shelters are not required in residential buildings like independent living communities.[05] However, since Oklahoma City is in tornado alley, some independent living communities may have storm shelters, emergency drills, and/or safety protocols to help guarantee your safety. Inquire with your prospective community to learn more about their storm preparedness.
Do independent living communities offer accommodations for seniors with disabilities?
If an independent living facility was built after March 13, 1991, and has more than four units, they’re required to meet accessibility standards like the following:[06]
- Accessible common areas
- Doors and hallways wide enough for wheelchairs
- Accessible routes in the unit
- Reachable outlets, light switches, thermostats, etc.
- Reinforced bathroom walls in case grab bars need to be installed
- Wheelchair-friendly kitchens and bathrooms
Federal law requires landlords to make reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities. Some examples of reasonable accommodations that landlords make for residents with disabilities can include the following:
- Providing reserved, accessible parking
- Installing wheelchair ramps
- Installing grab bars in bathrooms
- Allowing service or therapy pets even when a no-pet policy is in place
- Adjusting rental due dates to fall in line with monthly disability checks
That being said, the facility doesn’t have to comply with accommodations if doing so will alter the community’s programs or create a financial or administrative burden on the facility.
Do regulations change for independent living communities with multiple care types?
Yes. Where an independent living facility shares areas with an assisted living or memory care unit, the area must follow the state rules and regulations for assisted living or memory care. Visit our guides to OKC assisted living or memory care for more information on the specific regulations for those types of units.
COVID-19 regulations for Oklahoma City independent living communities
The governor of Oklahoma ended all COVID-19 restrictions after terminating the public health emergency.[07] However, the Oklahoma Department of Health (ODOH) still recommends following current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines.
While Oklahoma City has no specific COVID-19 regulations for independent living facilities, individual facilities may have their own guidelines. Therefore, contacting your prospective independent living community is essential to understand their current COVID-19 guidelines. If you are homebound, you may also benefit from contacting the ODOH about their in-home COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters service.
What to expect from independent living in Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City independent living communities provide a worry-free lifestyle in a resort-style setting. Whether you’re looking for a stand-alone independent living community or a campus with multiple health care services, OKC has an equal amount of each. No matter the community, our partners offer an abundance of amenities and activities right on-site. Some even host religious services. Read on to learn more about what it’s like to retire in an independent living community in OKC.
Stand-alone vs. continuum of care: What’s the difference?
Our independent living partners in Oklahoma City are either stand-alone facilities or communities that offer multiple care types on the same campus. Half of our independent living partners in OKC offer multiple care types on one campus.[01] Many independent living communities offer comparable amenities and activities for active and social seniors. However, communities with multiple care levels have additional on-site health care services, like assisted living or memory care.
Senior care communities providing a continuum of care on the same campus can help you or your loved one age in place. This means that if you ever need assisted living or memory care in the future, you won’t need to change communities. Instead, you can move to a different unit on the same campus. These multitiered care communities are also beneficial for couples with varying care needs. For example, if one partner is independent and the other has advanced care needs, they can live together in the same community.
Live a life of luxury with extra amenities
Resort-style independent living in OKC combines relaxation with multiple opportunities thanks to its extra amenities. In these senior living communities, seniors experience a life of luxury where they can explore hobbies, maintain physical health, and relax. You can expect communal leisure areas like the following at our independent living partners in Oklahoma City:
- Arts and crafts centers
- Beauty salons
- Barbershops
- Outdoor courtyards and walking paths
- Raised gardens
- Fitness centers
- Billiards and game lounges
- Movie theaters
- Libraries and business centers
- Pools and Jacuzzis
Promoting active living
Most independent living communities promote active living through activities. In fact, 100% of our independent living partners offer on-site activities. While the types of activities depend on the community and residents, below are some of the most common pastimes at our OKC partners:
- Live musical performances
- Educational speakers
- Lifelong learning opportunities
- Stretching and yoga classes
- Art classes
- Happy hours
- Game nights
- Dances and holiday parties
In addition to these activities, a majority of our independent living partners have senior-friendly programs to help promote health and engagement. Here are a few examples:
- Live Well programs
- Pet-therapy programs
- Community service programs
- Intergenerational programs
Independent living communities also promote socialization to help prevent isolation or loneliness. About 57% of our independent living partners have resident-led clubs to help encourage friendships and hobby building. Here are a few examples of popular clubs at our local partners:[01]
- Book club
- Gardening club
- Bridge club
- Cards club
- Cooking club
- Walking club
Faith-based options in Oklahoma senior living
Located in the center of the Bible Belt, Oklahoma City has a very devout population. You can find Christian churches of various denominations on almost every corner of the city. Independent living communities in OKC understand that their residents appreciate worship services, so many have on-site religious or devotional activities and services.
Of our partners, 92% report that they offer some type of on-site devotional activities, with many including religious services for Catholics, Protestants, and various denominations. Additionally, some of these communities also have a visiting chaplain, pastor, or priest.[01] Some communities may also provide access to off-site devotional activities. Or, depending on the transportation services available, you may be able to use on-site transportation to attend your current church’s service.
Oklahoma City independent living services and amenities
Availability of select dietary accommodations in Oklahoma City independent living
Availability of select dining options in Oklahoma City independent living
Availability of select programs and activities in Oklahoma City independent living
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Tour your favorite facilities.
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Unfamiliar with Oklahoma City? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 55 currently living in Oklahoma City
Mean retirement income for Oklahoma City seniors 60 and older[08]
Health care for seniors in Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City seniors have nearby access to quality health care systems where specialized care is available.
INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center
Find quality care at Integris Baptist Medical Center, which holds a 75% recommendation rating from patients. The hospital offers specialized care with a heart hospital, stroke center, home health agency, and diabetes education team.
SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital — Oklahoma City
Another distinguished hospital in OKC is the SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital — Oklahoma City, which is recommended by patients with a 69% approval rating. The hospital has optimal care for common conditions in seniors thanks to the SSM Health Neurosciences and SSM Health Heart and Vascular Care office.
University of Oklahoma Medical Center
Find innovative care at the University of Oklahoma’s medical teaching hospital, the University of Oklahoma Medical Center, where 63% of patients recommend the hospital. It’s part of Oklahoma’s Healthy Aging Initiative, a statewide network that works to help seniors age healthily. In fact, the hospital is home to the Oklahoma Center for Gerosciences and Healthy Brain Aging.
Transportation for seniors in Oklahoma City
Transportation provided by an independent living community is the safest option for seniors, which is why about 85% of our OKC partners have on-site transportation services. Keep in mind these may be complimentary or at-cost, depending on the community.
On the other hand, many independent seniors use their own means of transportation to get around OKC, so almost all — 92% to be exact — of our independent living partners also offer parking to residents.[01] Some properties even have covered parking options to help protect your vehicle from storms or sun exposure.
Public transportation options in Oklahoma City
If you don’t have your own means of transportation, you can find helpful public transportation options conveniently located near many of our independent living partners in OKC.[01] The following public transportation options are run through EMBARK, the largest local transit system:
- Local buses travel along different routes with various schedules. Most buses run Monday through Sunday.
- EMBARK Plus is the local paratransit van that helps those who cannot use other transportation options due to a disability.
- OKC Streetcar has two options. One is in the downtown area and is available daily. The other is in Bricktown and is only available on the weekends. Note: If you’re 65+ or have a disability, ask about reduced rates.
- Oklahoma River Cruises offer scenic ferries to five landings in Bricktown, Regatta Park, Exchange, Stockyards, and Meridian.
Additionally, if you’re a SoonerCare recipient, you may be eligible for transportation services through SoonerRide.
OKC can be difficult to get around even with these transportation options since it’s such a sprawling, car-dependent metropolitan area. The city has pretty low walk and transit scores. But the downtown area is more accessible, with a higher Walk Score of 72 as compared to the overall city. Below are Oklahoma City’s overall scores, out of 100, to help you understand the city’s accessibility.[10]
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Oklahoma City
Between its authentic Southwestern culture and vibrant metropolis, the Oklahoma City area has evolved to be a dynamic scene with something for everyone. There are endless opportunities in OKC that people from all walks of life can enjoy, whether you’re visiting or choosing a place to retire. Check out the Visit OKC city guide to learn more about popular activities and what you can expect to find when you retire there. We’ve highlighted some popular spots below.
Learn more at many museums
Oklahoma City has many museums that encompass a wide range of cultures, hobbies, and interests. You’ll be able to find something for everyone, from Western heritage to artistic appreciation. Here are a few of the several museums in OKC:
- National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, also known as ‘The Cowboy,’ is the most well-known museum in OKC dedicated to the local cowboy culture and Western heritage.
- Oklahoma Hall of Fame and Gaylor Pickens Museum is dedicated to everyday and famous locals with interactive and special exhibits.
- Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum allows locals to learn more about the tragic bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah federal building in 1995.
- First Americans Museum Oklahoma is a distinguished museum in OKC featuring over 35 stories on the First American Nations.
- Oklahoma City Museum of Art is a large art museum that hosts many exhibits, events, shows, and film screenings.
- Science Museum Oklahoma is a classic science museum featuring Oklahoma’s first dome-screen theater.
Explore Stockyards City
Since Oklahoma City is known for its cowboy culture, a must-see is the local Stockyards City, where you can explore Western heritage. You can not only see local livestock walking the streets, but also explore local Western outlets and businesses. Plus, Stockyards City is home to Oklahoma Opry where local bands and entertainers play every Saturday.
Cheer on local sports teams
Residents in OKC rally around for their local sports teams. The biggest in the area are the local professional and collegiate teams:
- Oklahoma City Thunder: Oklahoma’s professional basketball team plays in the wheelchair-accessible Paycom Center.
- Dodgers: The local minor league baseball team plays in the ADA-accessible Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.
Enjoy the outdoors
Between water activities and the local parks, Oklahoma City is also full of endless outdoor activities:
- Golf courses: OKC is home to several golf courses, with those linked only being a few of the endless options.
- OKC trails: Oklahoma City has over 80 miles of multiuse trails where you can walk or bike.
- Riversport: This nonprofit foundation helps visitors and locals experience a variety of river sports like tubing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting.
- Lakes: This landlocked state has Lake Hefner, Lake Overholser, and Lake Stanley Draper in OKC. Here you can boat, kayak, canoe, fish, and more.
- Will Rodgers Gardens: This garden is located in one of OKC’s parks with a conservatory, 2-acre garden, 10-acre arboretum, and exhibition center.
- Oklahoma City Zoo: Stretching across 130 acres and housing over 1,900 animals, the local zoo has a variety of habitats.
Gamble at nearby casinos
Locals in Oklahoma City can not only play casino games but also place horse racing bets. Remington Park combines both of these types of gaming in one area. There are a few casino options in the greater Oklahoma City surrounding areas. The most popular nearby options include Riverwind Casino in Norman and Newcastle Casino in Newcastle, all under 25 miles from downtown OKC.
Eat at local restaurants
If you’re a meat lover, Oklahoma is the state for you. OKC is known for its hearty foods such as steak, chicken fried steak, and barbeque. Oklahoma, also known as the Sooner State, has a lot of beef cattle, so Oklahoma restaurants and stores offer fresh, quality, and locally sourced steaks, what some even call “Sooner Steaks.” Oklahoma even designated the ribeye as its state steak.
As a Southern state, trying Oklahoma’s local barbeque is obligatory. Regardless of your preference, you can find a wide range of restaurants in OKC, from formal steakhouses to country-like barbeque joints.
Find local street art
While exploring Oklahoma City, visitors and locals can find beautiful murals painted throughout the city. In fact, USA Today readers ranked OKC as No. 1 for street art in the United States. The Visit OKC page has a guide to local street art, so you can explore every district of the city to find all the colorful murals in the area.
Experience a wide range of music venues
Oklahoma City is the birthplace of many famous country music stars, so many country music venues exist. However, OKC’s local music venues go beyond country music by exploring other genres with a variety of year-round performances, from smooth jazz to upbeat pop music.
Frequently Asked Questions
Laurel Springs, Rivermont Assisted Living Memory Care and Village on the Park at Oklahoma City are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Oklahoma City, OK. These Independent Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Independent Living in Oklahoma City is $3,837 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place for Mom. (2022-2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Oklahoma City city. [Data set]. American Community Survey.
Level of care medical eligibility determination, Oklahoma Health Care Authority Oklahoma Administrative Code § 317:35-17-2 (rev. 2012, June 25).
Landlord and Tenant, Oklahoma Senate § 41 (2022).
State of Oklahoma Uniform Building Code Commission. (2009). Minimum state requirements for storm shelters.
Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services. Section 1: Disability laws and complaint procedures.
Oklahoma State Department of Health. (2021, June 22). Long-term care facility.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 60 years and over in The United States: Oklahoma City city. [Data set]. American Community Survey.
Health Grades. (2023). Hospitals near Oklahoma City, OK.
Walk Score. Living in Oklahoma City.
Donovan, L. (2023, April 28). Personal communication [Phone interview].
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