Edmond Connect

Looking for a fresh start in a friendly community with charm, affordability, and plenty of amenities? Edmond, Oklahoma, might just be the perfect place to call home. This thriving city north of Oklahoma City has been gaining recognition for all the right reasons – from its exceptional quality of life to its blend of small-town atmosphere with big city convenience. Whether you’re raising a family, seeking career opportunities, or simply looking for a place where you can enjoy life to its fullest, Edmond has something special to offer. Let’s explore what makes this Oklahoma city so appealing to newcomers and long-time residents alike.

Safety, Education, and Quality of Life: Highlighting Edmond’s recognition as one of the “100 Best Places to Live” in America, its top-rated school system (including 11 Blue Ribbon Schools), and family-friendly atmosphere that makes it ideal for settling down.

Edmond’s reputation as one of the “100 Best Places to Live” in America by CNN/Money Magazine isn’t just a marketing slogan—it’s a testament to the exceptional quality of life residents enjoy. This recognition stems from Edmond’s commitment to creating a safe, nurturing environment where families can thrive.

Education excellence stands as one of Edmond’s crowning achievements, with its school district boasting an impressive 11 Blue Ribbon Schools—more than any other district in Oklahoma. Deer Creek Public Schools and Edmond Public Schools routinely rank among the top performers in academic testing statewide, with Memorial High School earning the #1 spot in the city and #5 in the state according to US News rankings. This commitment to educational excellence extends beyond K-12, with the University of Central Oklahoma providing higher education opportunities right in town. For families prioritizing their children’s education, Edmond offers an academic environment that nurtures growth, creativity, and achievement at every level.

Affordable Living with Great Amenities: Discussing the cost of living that’s 9% below the national average, the strong local economy with higher-than-average household incomes, and affordable housing options while still offering exceptional amenities and services.

One of Edmond’s compelling advantages is its remarkable affordability without sacrificing quality of life. With a cost of living approximately 9% below the national average, residents enjoy substantial savings across various expenses, from housing to everyday necessities. This financial breathing room allows families to allocate resources toward experiences, savings, or investments rather than merely covering basic needs. Housing costs, while rising with Edmond’s popularity, remain reasonable compared to similar communities offering equivalent amenities and quality of life. The median home price of $325,000 represents attainable homeownership for many families, especially considering the exceptional value these properties provide in terms of community benefits, school quality, and overall livability.

Edmond’s robust economy further enhances its affordability advantage, with household incomes significantly outpacing national averages. The average household income sits at an impressive $150,964—considerably higher than national figures that hover below $100,000. This economic strength is supported by diverse employment sectors, including education, healthcare, government, and small businesses. The city’s top employers include Edmond Public Schools, the University of Central Oklahoma, and the City of Edmond itself, providing stable career opportunities across various industries. This combination of reasonable living costs and strong earning potential allows approximately 70% of residents to achieve homeownership, demonstrating that the American dream remains and achievable in Edmond.

Outdoor Recreation and Community Activities: Featuring Edmond’s 33 parks, 40+ miles of trails, Arcadia Lake, numerous sports facilities (including golf courses and the Kickingbird Pickleball Center), and year-round outdoor activities for residents of all ages.

Edmond’s commitment to outdoor recreation is evident in its impressive array of green spaces and recreational facilities that cater to active lifestyles year-round. The city boasts 33 meticulously maintained parks providing ample space for everything from peaceful picnics to energetic playground adventures. More than 40 miles of paved and multi-use trails weave throughout the community, offering scenic routes for walking, running, and cycling. The popular Hafer Trail stretches nearly 2 miles through a beautiful blend of prairie and forest landscapes, while Spring Creek Trail rewards users with breathtaking views of Arcadia Lake. These interconnected pathways not only promote physical activity but also provide convenient, car-free transportation options connecting neighborhoods to shopping, dining, and recreation areas.

Water enthusiasts find their paradise at Arcadia Lake, a centerpiece of Edmond’s outdoor recreation scene. This 1,820-acre reservoir offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, camping, and wildlife observation throughout the year. For sports enthusiasts, Edmond delivers exceptional facilities including championship golf courses, the Edmond Golf Club, and the innovative Kickingbird Pickleball Center with its 24 dedicated courts. Disc golf aficionados can test their skills at the Arcadia Lake Disc Golf Courses, while dog owners appreciate the dedicated off-leash areas at Bickham Rudkin Park. With programming for seniors, children’s activities, community sports leagues, and seasonal events, Edmond ensures that outdoor recreation remains accessible and engaging for residents of all ages and interests, regardless of the season.

Perfect Balance of Small-Town Feel and Big-City Access: Emphasizing Edmond’s charming downtown area, thriving dining scene (250+ restaurants), arts community, while being just 15 miles from Oklahoma City with easy access to additional employment, entertainment, and travel options.

Edmond captures the ideal that many communities strive for—a genuine small-town atmosphere with all the conveniences of big-city living. The heart of this balance can be found in Edmond’s charming downtown district, where historic buildings house locally-owned boutiques, coffee shops, and specialty stores that retain authentic character. Strolling these streets, you’ll encounter friendly faces, public art installations, and seasonal decorations that create a sense of belonging often missing in larger metropolitan areas. The community’s commitment to public spaces fosters natural gathering places where neighbors connect during farmers markets, concerts, and festivals that punctuate the calendar year-round. This small-town ambiance extends to community events where familiar faces create the kind of social fabric that makes residents feel truly at home.

While embracing its small-town charm, Edmond doesn’t compromise on sophisticated amenities. The city’s dining scene features over 250 restaurants ranging from casual eateries to upscale dining experiences like Farmers Grain Kitchen + Cellar and Signature Grill. The thriving arts community showcases local talent through public art tours, galleries, and performances. When residents seek additional options, Oklahoma City lies just 15 miles south—a quick 30-minute drive that provides access to professional sports, international airport connections, specialized medical facilities, and expanded employment opportunities. This proximity allows Edmond residents to enjoy big-city advantages while returning to their peaceful community at day’s end. The perfect balance of small-town living with metropolitan accessibility makes Edmond an increasingly attractive destination for those seeking quality of life without isolation or inconvenience.