Is Bixby Safe, Pros and cons of living in Bixby
Bixby, Oklahoma, presents a compelling picture for those considering a move, blending small-town charm with a growing community feel. Located in the Tulsa metropolitan area, it offers a blend of suburban tranquility and access to urban amenities. The city’s nickname, “The Garden Spot of Oklahoma,” hints at its historical roots in agriculture and its continued appeal as a pleasant place to live.
This analysis delves into various facets of Bixby, providing insights into its safety, cost of living, economic landscape, climate, educational opportunities, and demographic makeup. Understanding these elements is crucial for anyone contemplating a relocation to this dynamic Oklahoma city.
Is it Safe to Live in Bixby?
Bixby demonstrates a generally safe environment, with crime rates that are often reported as lower than national averages. The overall crime rate in Bixby is reported to be 60% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents (according to AreaVibes). Violent crime rates are also noted to be significantly lower, with one source indicating they are 55.6% lower than the U.S. average (according to AreaVibes).
However, it’s important to note that crime can vary by neighborhood, with some areas being perceived as safer than others. For instance, the southwest part of the city is generally considered the safest, while the northwest neighborhoods may have a higher incidence of crime. Overall, your chance of being a victim of crime in Bixby is reported to be 1 in 117 (according to AreaVibes).
Cost of Living and Housing Market
Housing Costs
The cost of living in Bixby is generally considered to be lower than the national average. Bixby’s housing expenses are reported to be 12% lower than the national average (according to Payscale). The median home value in Bixby is approximately $297,344 (according to Livability.com), though other sources indicate a median listing price of $463,900 (according to Bixby, OK Housing Market & Rental Trends).
Rental prices in Bixby are also competitive. The median monthly rent is reported to be around $1,002 (according to Livability.com), while other sources suggest an average rent of $1,894 per month (according to Livingcost). The rental market shows strong demand, with month-over-month rent growth at 7.95% (according to Bixby, OK Housing Market & Rental Trends).
Overall Cost of Living
Bixby’s overall cost of living is estimated to be 10% lower than the national average (according to Payscale). This affordability extends to various expense categories, with utility prices being 1% lower and transportation expenses, such as gas prices, being 12% lower than the national average (according to Payscale). Grocery prices in Bixby are also 5% lower than the national average (according to Payscale).
Healthcare costs in Bixby are slightly lower than the national average, by about 2% (according to Payscale). These economic factors contribute to Bixby being an attractive option for those seeking a more budget-friendly lifestyle while still having access to desirable amenities.
Job Market and Economy
Major Employers
Bixby is home to a variety of employers, contributing to its economic vitality. National companies with a presence in Bixby include Walmart, Costco Wholesale, Target, and UPS (according to Indeed.com). Local entities like Reasor’s, Mabrey Bank, and BTC Broadband also play significant roles in the employment landscape.
BTC Broadband, a communications company, has been a part of the Bixby community since 1914, providing internet and telephone services. Mabrey Bank is a prominent local financial institution serving the Tulsa area. These diverse employers offer a range of opportunities for residents within the city and the surrounding region.
Employment Statistics
The unemployment rate in Bixby is reported to be 3.4% as of 2026 (according to Data Commons). This figure is generally considered to be in line with or slightly below national averages, indicating a stable job market. The city has a job growth rate of +1.9% (according to Salario).
The median household income in Bixby is reported to be $94,643 (according to Livability.com), while other sources cite an average household income of $117,282 (according to Unraveling Bixby, OK’s Enigmatic Demographics). These figures suggest a community with a solid economic foundation and earning potential for its residents.
Climate and Environment
Temperatures and Rainfall
Bixby experiences a climate with distinct seasons. Average temperatures range from a low of 26°F in January to a high of 95°F in July (according to Livability.com). The city receives an average annual precipitation of 42 inches (according to Livability.com), with May being the wettest month, averaging around 8.70 inches of rain (according to 74008, Bixby, Oklahoma Weather Averages).
Summers in Bixby can be hot and humid, particularly from June to August. Winters are generally mild, with average high temperatures in January around 49°F and average lows around 27°F (according to Bixby, Oklahoma Climate). Snowfall is minimal, averaging about 3 inches annually (according to Livability.com).
Comfortable Weather
The most pleasant times to visit or enjoy outdoor activities in Bixby are typically during the spring and fall months. April to May and mid-September to October are highlighted as the best times of year for comfortable weather (according to Livability.com). These periods offer mild temperatures and lower humidity, making them ideal for experiencing the city’s outdoor amenities.
The city experiences approximately 134 days per year with comfortable weather conditions, defined by mild temperatures and low humidity. This makes Bixby an appealing location for those who enjoy a climate conducive to outdoor living for a significant portion of the year.
Education and Schools
School District Performance
Bixby Public Schools is a highly-rated school district in Oklahoma. It holds an overall Niche grade of A, and is ranked #9 out of 429 school districts in Oklahoma (according to Bixby Public Schools – Oklahoma – Niche). The district is particularly recognized for its athletic programs, ranking #1 out of 398 for Best School Districts for Athletes in Oklahoma (according to Bixby Public Schools – Oklahoma – Niche).
Student proficiency in math and reading is reported at 43% and 55% respectively within the Bixby Public School district (according to Bixby Public Schools – Oklahoma – Niche). This indicates a solid foundation in core academic areas, with opportunities for growth and development for students.
Individual School Highlights
Within the Bixby School District, several schools have received high marks. Bixby North Elementary School, Bixby High School, and West Intermediate are among the top-ranked public schools in the 74008 zip code (according to Best Public Schools in 74008 (Bixby, OK)). Bixby High School is noted as the district’s top-performing school, consistently ranking among the best in Oklahoma with a 5-star rating (according to Best Public Schools in Bixby, Oklahoma & Rankings).
Elementary schools such as Bixby North Elementary School and Central Elementary School have also received strong ratings, with Bixby North Elementary School specifically noted for its high parent satisfaction and academic focus (according to Best Public Elementary Schools in Bixby – Niche).
Demographics and Community
Population Growth and Trends
Bixby is experiencing significant population growth, with its population increasing by 15.71% since the most recent census recorded in 2020 (according to Bixby, Oklahoma Population 2026). The city’s population was 28,609 in 2020, and projections indicate continued growth. This expansion reflects Bixby’s increasing appeal as a place to live and raise a family.
The city’s growth rate is estimated at 2.32% annually, making it one of the fastest-growing communities in Oklahoma (according to Bixby, Oklahoma Population 2026). This dynamic growth suggests a vibrant and developing community that attracts new residents seeking opportunities and a high quality of life.
Racial and Age Demographics
The racial composition of Bixby includes a majority White population, with approximately 73.88% identifying as White (according to Bixby, Oklahoma Population 2026). Other significant demographic groups include Native American (5.06%), Asian (3.2%), and Black or African American populations (2.09%). Hispanic or Latino individuals constitute about 4.9% of the population (according to Wikipedia).
The median age in Bixby is 36.4 years (according to Data Commons). The population is distributed across various age groups, with 27.9% under the age of 18 and 14.9% aged 65 or older (according to Wikipedia). This age distribution indicates a community with a balanced mix of young families and established residents.