Living in Norman, OK

There are many benefits to living in Norman, OK, an exciting suburb of Oklahoma City. Just 20 miles south of Downtown OKC, Norman is the third largest city in the state of Oklahoma. With about 121,000 residents, Norman is both a city in its own right and an OKC suburb.

Things to do in Norman, OK

With a city this size, you can imagine there’s plenty of choices that are easily within reach to occupy your leisure time and provide the homey comforts you want and need.

First of all, Norman is a college town, which brings opportunities for sports, recreation, the arts, entertainment, and continuing education. The University of Oklahoma (OU) has a large campus here, housing nearly 29,000 students with spectator sports from OU football, basketball, baseball, and softball. The Historic Campus Corner District is a popular Norman area. Across the street from the OU campus, this collection of shops, restaurants, bars, clubs, salons, and services is always a fun place to explore and becomes even more exciting on Sooners’ game days.

In addition to the vast array of campus activities and facilities, Norman has a vibrant nightlife, including a wide range of dining and entertainment choices. You’ll never have to drive far to find the best shopping or the best brew in the city (whether coffee or craft beer). For more fun and games, head over to Riverwind Casino, where you can test your luck or sit back and enjoy performances from international superstars, like Willie Nelson, Patti Labelle, and Jay Leno.

Lake Thunderbird State Park is a popular destination for Norman residents. Come and enjoy lake life. Two beaches, two marinas, and nine boat ramps give you easy access to the lake. You can also camp, picnic, hike, bike, or ride a horse at the park. If you don’t own a boat, bike or horse, you can rent one or take a guided trip out with a group. Fishing is a popular choice as well with fish species stocked at the lake including large-mouth bass, crappie, sunfish, channel catfish, white bass, and saugeye. Lake Thunderbird is part of the Central Loop in the Oklahoma Fishing Trail.

This city is proud of its Oklahoma heritage. You’ll find historic neighborhoods that reflect earlier eras, like the Chautauqua District, where you can see a blend of architectural styles come together, and the Silk Stockings District, known for its upscale residents in the early 20th century. While you’re planning your tour of Norman, use this guide to public art displays around the city.

Norman is also home to the National Weather Center, a 22-acre hub of organizations that work together to better understand and predict changes in our environment.

The cost of living in Norman, OK

Does this wonderful lifestyle come at a price? The cost of living in Norman, OK, is actually less than you might expect. Rated against the national average, the cost of housing, groceries, utilities, and transportation is slightly less in Norman and about the same as living in Oklahoma City. This affordable cost of living also includes Norman’s exceptional schools, which deliver the educational experience that parents are looking for.

One thing that the people of Norman and Oklahoma City share is a love for their city. Pride is evident everywhere as locals extend a warm welcome and a willingness to help each other.

If Norman sounds like the kind of place that’s worth a look, Homes by Taber would like to show you more. We’re building new home communities that feature single-family homes that reflect our “Proudly Overbuilt” standard for value. Talk to Frankie Lewis about our new homes for sale in Norman—and be sure to ask him for some “insider tips” of places to go and things to do in Norman!