In recent years, Oklahoma has become an increasingly attractive destination for people looking to relocate. With its low cost of living, friendly population, and diverse job opportunities, it's no wonder that the state's population growth has exceeded that of the nation. This growth was further accelerated when Governor Kevin Stitt removed most COVID restrictions in the state, even when other states were still maintaining them. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Oklahoma had the third lowest unemployment rate in the country in October 2020.
This rate was 2.7%, the lowest since 1976 and one point lower than that of neighboring states. This rate dropped even further to 2.5% in November. In comparison to its neighboring states, Oklahoma fared much better than all of them. The net number of people moving to Oklahoma from other states (24.68) was almost equal to the net number of domestic migrants in Colorado and Missouri combined.
On a national level, only fifteen states achieved a higher growth rate than Oklahoma. Contrary to what some may think, Oklahoma's conservative political environment does not seem to be deterring people from relocating there. This was evidenced by a panel organized by the Oklahoma Conference of Churches in June 2020 which focused on House Bill 1775 which prohibited elementary and secondary schools from teaching various concepts related generally to critical race theory. Oklahoma is becoming an increasingly popular destination for families due to its low crime rates, affordable housing, and excellent schools.
People are drawn to the state for its political climate as well as its restrictions related to COVID.
