Average Rent in Tulsa, OK↑ Rents rising 4.5% YoY🔺 2nd priciest in OK
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 1,026,209
Market Overview
Tulsa, OK has rental prices ranging from $890/month to $1,796/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $950/month — 32% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $67,823/year, spending $950/month on a 1-bedroom represents 17% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Tulsa Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,179/month, Tulsa ranks #2 most expensive of the 70 cities tracked in Oklahoma — pricier than 81% of all US cities in our data.
The Tulsa Rental Market
The Tulsa, OK area has a population of about 1,026,209 and 35% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Tulsa, OK have risen by $51/month (4.5%) over the past year, from $1,128 to $1,179. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Tulsa, OK without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $38,000. The local median household income of $67,823 exceeds that threshold by $29,823, making Tulsa relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Rent vs. Buy
The median home value in Tulsa, OK is $221,628, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 15.7. With a break-even horizon of approximately 16 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.
Neighborhoods
Home values — and by extension rent levels — vary significantly across Tulsa's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are Willow Creek ($78,028 median home value), Springdale ($79,048 median home value), Carriage Trail ($87,722 median home value). Rental prices typically follow home value patterns, with premium neighborhoods commanding higher rents than outer areas. Renters on a tighter budget may find better value in less central neighborhoods or in adjacent metros with lower overall rent levels.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Tulsa, OK Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in OKlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma City | $886 | $961 | $1,180 | $1,575 | — |
| Lawton | $745 | $750 | $962 | $1,348 | — |
| Payne County | $767 | $822 | $1,014 | $1,421 | — |
| Pottawatomie County | $642 | $713 | $936 | $1,242 | — |
| Muskogee County | $707 | $712 | $934 | $1,170 | — |
| Garfield County | $493 | $581 | $768 | $1,083 | — |
Rent or Buy in Tulsa?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Tulsa data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate monthly payment for $221,628 home at 7% rate
Living in Tulsa
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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⚖️Rent vs Buy in TulsaIs it cheaper to rent or buy here?
💵Rent Affordability in TulsaSalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in OKSee how Tulsa ranks statewide
⚖️Compare TulsaSide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋OK Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections