The state of Oklahoma can be found in the Southern Central part of the US. The region has just over 3.5 million residents and is the 20th largest size in terms of land. The largest city and the state capital is Oklahoma City and other major urban areas include Tulsa and Norman. Most of the state is in the Great Plains area and frequently experiences severe weather conditions, with one of the highest frequencies of tornados each year.

The state does have a growing community of expats who are attracted to the region mainly for work. The main industries are gas, oil and agriculture, but there are also strong aviation and telecommunications industries.

Oklahoma – Employment

Oklahoma has an unemployment rate of around 6.5%, which is much lower than many other states and this is mainly due to the large numbers of international corporations which have a base there. Oklahoma has one of the strongest gas producing industries in the US and there are many opportunities in this field for those who are qualified professionals. There are several companies in this area which are international organizations and which can sponsor you, making it easier to get a work permit.

The city of Tulsa has a large airline maintenance base – reputedly the largest in the world – and again, for skilled professionals there are many opportunities. For unskilled professionals there are also opportunities, although it is much more difficult to find work. Other industries in the region include agriculture, and the state is one of the largest producers of wheat. Farm work is available but this can often prove to be seasonal.

Oklahoma – Property

Tulsa has a number of districts that are attractive to new residents, but all for different reasons. For example, the Brookside district is one of the oldest in the city and is well known for its antique shops, restaurants and clubs. As a result it attracts mainly younger residents and there are large numbers of apartments for sale and rent. The Cherry Tree district is similar, but has less of a lively nightlife, so it is perhaps more suited to families. Properties in the area range from apartments to single family homes.

East Tulsa has a very multi-cultural community so is very welcoming for expats. This is a suburban area and is filled with single family homes. Prices are very reasonable in East Tulsa and there are many properties to rent and buy. The Greenwood district is home to a large community of African-Americans and is famous for its restaurants and university. Homes in the area range from apartments to detached family homes. In contrast the Uptown district has many very large houses which can be described as mansions and attracts many local celebrities. Prices here are extremely high and properties on the market are rare.

The Terwillger Heights area of Tulsa dates back to the 1930s and the architecture of the houses reflects this. The streets are small and this is a very tranquil part of town. Properties on offer are mainly family homes and as this is a sought after district, it is considered to be a little more expensive than some of the neighbouring areas.

Oklahoma City also attracts newcomers and parts of the city are undergoing a revival in popularity. The Downtown district is becoming popular again as more businesses move into the area and old buildings are converted into apartments. These are being aimed at the young professional market though prices are expected to increase in the years to come. The district of Bricktown is known for its entertainment venues and restaurants and properties in the area are mainly apartments which appeal to younger people.

The Deep Deuce district of Oklahoma has large numbers of apartments, which were built in the 1990s. These are mainly low rise buildings. There are a few family homes but not many. There are now new residential developments in progress and these are also apartments. The Midtown district of Oklahoma City is becoming a very trendy area, with former warehouses being converted into apartments aimed at young people. These conversion projects are taking place all over the district and prices of apartments are expected to rise in the next few years.