Is Stillwater Safe, Pros and cons of living in Stillwater
Stillwater, Oklahoma, offers a unique blend of a vibrant college town atmosphere with the more relaxed pace of a Midwestern community. It’s a city that balances opportunities for growth with a comfortable cost of living, making it an attractive destination for a diverse range of residents.
This guide delves into the essential aspects of living in Stillwater, covering safety, the cost of living, housing, employment, climate, education, and the people who call this city home. Whether you’re considering a move for work, education, or a change of scenery, understanding these key factors will help you make an informed decision about whether Stillwater is the right fit for you.
Is it Safe to Live in Stillwater?
Stillwater demonstrates a crime rate that is lower than the national average for violent crimes, with 5.135 per 1,000 residents (CrimeGrade.org). Property crime rates are also generally lower than the national average, though some sources indicate they can be higher than the state average (FBI Crime Data Explorer, CrimeGrade.org). The FBI Crime Data Explorer indicates that over a five-year period, Stillwater recorded 3,162 violent crimes and 5,211 property crimes, with violent crime rates being 27.8% below the national average. Property crime rates were 8.7% below the national average during the same period.
While Stillwater’s overall crime rate is considered to be higher than the national average by some metrics, the chance of becoming a victim of violent crime is relatively low, with a rate of approximately 2 per one thousand inhabitants (NeighborhoodScout). Certain neighborhoods, particularly in the southwest part of the city, are considered safer than others (CrimeGrade.org). The city’s safety can be viewed in context, with crime rates being near the average when compared to communities of similar size across America (NeighborhoodScout).
Housing Costs and Trends
The housing market in Stillwater presents a more affordable option compared to national averages. The median home value is approximately $239,969 as of March 2026 (Zillow). This figure is substantially lower than the national average, making homeownership more accessible for many.
Rental prices in Stillwater also tend to be more affordable than the national average. The median rent for all property types is around $1,599 (Zillow), with a significant year-over-year increase of 65.37% noted in March 2026 (Realtor.com® Research). This upward trend in rental costs suggests a competitive market for renters, with a steady flow of opportunities but rising prices.
The Job Market and Major Employers
Stillwater’s economy is significantly influenced by its status as a university town, with Oklahoma State University being a primary employer. Other major employers include Stillwater Medical Center and Meridian Technology Center (Zippia). The city also benefits from a diverse range of retail and specialized businesses, contributing to a varied employment landscape.
The unemployment rate in Stillwater was 4.30% as of April 2026, which is higher than the long-term average (YCharts). The average annual salary in Stillwater is approximately $45,457, with most salaries ranging between $31,774 and $56,086 (ZipRecruiter). Top-paying jobs in the area include specialized medical and financial roles.
Climate and Weather Patterns
Stillwater experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, muggy summers and generally mild to cool winters. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with an average annual precipitation of about 36.71 inches (NOAA). The hottest month is typically July, with average high temperatures around 94°F, while the coldest month is January, with average low temperatures around 28°F (Weather Spark).
The city sees an average of 12 days per year where temperatures do not rise above freezing. Snowfall averages around 9.4 inches annually. Summers can be quite warm, with daily high temperatures frequently exceeding 86°F from June through September (Weather Spark).
Education and School Ratings
Stillwater Public Schools is a highly-rated district, earning an overall ‘A’ grade from Niche. It is ranked among the top school districts in Oklahoma, particularly noted for its teachers and athletic programs (Niche). The district serves approximately 6,019 students with a student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1.
Stillwater High School also receives strong ratings, recognized for its public high school teachers and overall academic environment (Niche). While the district is praised for its arts and athletic programs, some reviews suggest that academic rigor in certain STEM areas could be enhanced (Niche).
Demographics and Community Life
Stillwater has a population of approximately 49,269 residents, making it one of the more populated cities in Oklahoma (U.S. Census Bureau). The median age in Stillwater is quite young, at 23.9 years, largely due to the presence of Oklahoma State University (U.S. Census Bureau). This youthful demographic contributes to a dynamic and active community atmosphere.
The racial makeup of Stillwater is predominantly White, at around 71.4%, followed by Multiracial, Asian, and Hispanic populations (U.S. Census Bureau). The median household income is approximately $43,700, with a poverty rate of 27.4% (U.S. Census Bureau). The community is known for its close-knit feel and affordability, offering a welcoming environment for residents.
Cost of Living
Stillwater offers a cost of living that is notably lower than the national average. Overall expenses are approximately 8.9% lower than the national average (Apartments.com). Housing costs are a significant contributor to this affordability, being about 21.9% less expensive than the national average (Apartments.com).
Groceries, utilities, and transportation expenses are also below the national average, making daily living more manageable. For instance, housing expenses are 22% lower than the national average, and utility prices are 6% lower (Payscale). This affordability, combined with a good quality of life, makes Stillwater an appealing place to live.