Trying to find an affordable place to live in Oklahoma? We understand. Renting on a budget is tricky no matter where you live, but some cities make it easier than others. The good news is, Oklahoma has plenty of reasonably-priced rental options if you know where to search.
In this blog post, we’re going to give you the inside scoop on finding a rental in your price range in the Sooner State. From studio apartments to houses, we’ve got the details on neighborhoods, average rents, rental assistance, and money-saving tips. So get ready to learn the secrets to renting on a budget in Oklahoma. With the right info, you could be settled into your new affordable digs in no time.
Finding Affordable Rentals in Oklahoma
Start your search online using sites like Zillow or Craigslist to browse listings and get a feel for rental prices in different areas. You can filter by max lent amount, bedrooms, neighborhood, etc.
- Oklahoma City and Tulsa typically have the most options, but don’t rule out surrounding suburbs and smaller cities which can offer lower prices. Norman, Broken Arrow, and Edmond are worth checking out.
- Consider renting a room in a shared house or apartment to save money. Lots of students and young professionals go this route. Browse listings on SpareRoom, Roomies, and Facebook Groups.
- Drive or walk around neighborhoods you’re interested in and find “For Rent” signs. Some landlords don’t advertise online. This is also a great way to get a feel for the area.
- Ask friends, family, co-workers if they know of any deals. Word-of-mouth referrals can lead you to unlisted rentals.
- Be flexible on amenities and features. A basic apartment without a pool or fitness center costs less. Older buildings typically rent cheaper as well.
- Look into income-restricted affordable housing offered by programs like Section 8 if you qualify. Your local housing authority can provide more information.
With persistence, find cozy rentals in Oklahoma on a budget. Just cast a wide net in your search and be open-minded!
Budget-Friendly Neighborhoods for Renters
Oklahoma has plenty of affordable areas for renters on a budget. Here are some great options to consider:
Midwest City
Located east of Oklahoma City, Midwest City offers lower rents than the metro area. Check out duplexes and apartments off Air Depot Blvd or around the Tinker Air Force Base.
Del City
Just south of Midwest City, Del City provides rents 15-20% cheaper than OKC. Look for places near Sooner Rd or around Del City High School. Lots of duplexes and older homes for rent.
Yukon
Just west of OKC, Yukon has experienced growth but still has reasonable rents. Search around Yukon Ave or the Czech Hall area for apartments and houses.
Norman
The college town vibe makes Norman popular. But away from campus near 12th Ave or west of I-35 are areas with more budget rents for what you get.
Lawton
As the 5th largest city in OK, Lawton offers many budget rentals. Check around 11th St or 38th St for duplexes, 4-plexes and older homes for rent.
Moore
Located south of OKC, Moore provides lower rents than the capital. Look around 4th St or Telephone Rd for deals on apartments and houses.
With its mix of small towns and metro areas, Oklahoma gives budget-minded renters plenty of affordable options in safe neighborhoods if you know where to look. Do your research and find a rental that fits your budget.
Tips for Saving Money on Rent in Oklahoma
Oklahoma is known for having some of the lowest rents in the U.S. But even “low” rent can stretch your budget thin if you don’t know how to take advantage of savings. Use these tips to cut costs on your Oklahoma rental.
- Look for move-in specials. Many complexes will offer a week or two of free rent to get you in the door. This can add up to big savings over the course of a yearlong lease. Just make sure to read the fine print.
- Rent farther from downtown/campus. Prime locations come with a premium price tag. Venture 10-15 minutes farther out and you could save $100 or more per month. Make sure you factor in transportation costs.
- Get a roommate. Splitting a 2-bedroom is one of the easiest ways to chop those housing costs in half. Interview potential roommates to find a compatible match.
- Downsize your space. A cozy studio or 1-bedroom could provide savings over a larger apartment with rooms you rarely use. Think carefully about your needs.
- Look for privately owned rentals. These are often cheaper than large corporate-owned complexes. Check local classifieds and rental websites.
- Ask about unadvertised specials. It never hurts to negotiate and see if a landlord will offer a lower price, waived fees, or other incentives.
- Avoid amenities you won’t use. Do you really need that fitness center or pool? Opting out could mean hundreds in savings.
With some good strategies, find affordable rentals even on a budget. The important thing is knowing where to look and how to negotiate.
Section 8 Housing Voucher Choice Program
The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program is 1 of a couple non-emergency rental assistance programs that could help you pay your rent if on a budget. With a housing voucher, you find your own place and pay 30% of your income towards rent. The housing authority pays the other, up to a payment standard.
Income Eligibility
To qualify to receive rent assistance, you’re going to need to meet income limits based on your family size. A single person can’t earn more than approximately $49,450 a year. Families could earn more.
Waiting List
Once qualified, you go on a waiting list. This can take 1-2 years in Oklahoma. But it’s worth getting on lists now for any areas you may want to live in someday.
Your Voucher
When your name comes up, the housing authority issues you a voucher. This allows you to find a rental that costs below their payment standards.
Finding Apartments
Find units that fall under the payment standard for your voucher size. A 1-bedroom may be around $700, for instance. The voucher covers the difference between 30% of your income and the standard.
Finding A Suitable Landlord
Your landlord or property owner must agree to rent to Section 8 low-income tenants. Not all actually do, so you’re likely have to search. Ask landlords upfront if they take Section 8.
Overall, the Section 8 private or public housing program provides an affordable, stable housing solution. With planning and persistence, you can find a great rental even on a limited budget.
Finding Housing Assistance in Oklahoma? Apply For Some FREE Benefits!
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