Is Woodward Safe, Pros and cons of living in Woodward

Woodward, Oklahoma, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and economic opportunity, making it an appealing place for many to consider a move. Situated in the northwestern part of the state, it serves as a significant regional hub for trade and commerce. The city’s economy is diversified, drawing strength from agriculture, energy, manufacturing, and a growing wind energy sector.

Residents of Woodward often speak of a strong sense of community and a more relaxed pace of life compared to larger metropolitan areas. The cost of living is notably lower than the national average, which can be a significant draw for individuals and families looking to stretch their budgets further. This affordability, combined with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, contributes to Woodward’s overall appeal.

Is it Safe to Live in Woodward?

When considering a move to any new city, understanding the safety and crime rates is paramount. Woodward’s crime statistics present a mixed picture, with some categories of crime being higher than the national average while others are lower. It’s important to look at specific crime data to get a comprehensive understanding.

Violent crime in Woodward occurs at a rate higher than in many communities across America (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). However, property crime rates in Woodward are lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). Your chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Woodward is approximately 1 in 356, while the chance of being a victim of property crime is around 1 in 71 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). Overall, Woodward’s crime rate is considered higher than the national average across all communities, though not among the very highest (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).

Cost of Living and Housing in Woodward

Woodward stands out for its affordability, with the overall cost of living being significantly lower than the national average. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking to reduce their expenses while maintaining a good quality of life. Housing costs, in particular, are a major contributor to this affordability.

The cost of living in Woodward is approximately 21% less than the national average (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). Housing costs in Woodward are notably more affordable than the U.S. average (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). The median home value in Woodward is around $150,501 (as reported by Livability.com), and the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $541 per month (as reported by Apartments.com). This makes Woodward a very accessible market for both homeowners and renters.

Job Market and Economy in Woodward

Woodward’s economy is bolstered by a diverse range of industries, providing a stable job market for its residents. The city is a key trade center for a large region, supporting its economic vitality. Key sectors contributing to employment include agriculture, petroleum, wind energy, and manufacturing.

Major employers in the area include Walmart, McDonald’s, and Dollar General, alongside local entities like Woodward Regional Hospital (as reported by Indeed.com and Zippia). The average salary in Woodward is approximately $59,029 per year (as reported by ERI SalaryExpert). For Woodward County, the unemployment rate was 3.5% in 2026 (as reported by Data USA). The primary industries employing residents in Woodward County are Retail Trade, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Educational Services (as reported by Data USA).

Climate and Environment in Woodward

Woodward, Oklahoma, experiences a climate characterized by four distinct seasons, offering a varied weather experience throughout the year. The summers can be quite warm, while the winters are generally cold.

The average temperature in Woodward ranges from a low of about 25°F in January to a high of around 95°F in July (as reported by myPerfectWeather). Annual snowfall is light, with approximately 13 inches, primarily occurring in the winter months. Total annual precipitation is moderate, around 25 inches, with June typically being the wettest month (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The city enjoys a significant amount of sunshine annually, contributing to a pleasant environment for much of the year.

Education in Woodward

Woodward provides educational opportunities through its public school district, serving students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The district includes several elementary, middle, and high schools, each with its own performance metrics and student demographics.

Woodward Public Schools has a student-teacher ratio of 17 to 1 (as reported by Niche). State test scores indicate that 31% of students are proficient in math and 42% in reading (as reported by Niche). Woodward High School has shown a relatively consistent four-year graduation rate, generally above the state average (as reported by SchoolDigger). However, the district faces challenges such as high chronic absenteeism rates, which are above the state average (as reported by SchoolDigger).

Demographics of Woodward

The population of Woodward is diverse, with a significant portion of residents identifying as White. The city has a notable Hispanic or Latino population, as well as representation from various other racial and ethnic groups.

As of the most recent census data, Woodward’s population was over 12,000, with a median age of around 37 years (as reported by Wikipedia). The racial makeup includes approximately 91.98% White, with smaller percentages of African American, Native American, and Asian residents (as reported by Wikipedia). Hispanic or Latino individuals constitute about 6.06% of the population (as reported by Wikipedia). The median household income in Woodward was approximately $32,441 in the past (as reported by Wikipedia), and more recently, the median household income in Woodward County was around $61,400 (as reported by USAFacts).

Pros and Cons of Living in Woodward

Woodward offers a compelling combination of affordability and a strong community spirit, making it an attractive place to live. The lower cost of living, particularly in housing, is a significant advantage for residents. The diversified economy, with its roots in agriculture and energy and its growth in wind power, provides a stable employment base.

However, potential residents should be aware of certain drawbacks. The crime rate, particularly for violent crimes, is higher than the national average, which may be a concern for some. While the climate offers distinct seasons, summers can be quite hot. Additionally, the school district faces challenges such as high chronic absenteeism, which could impact educational outcomes for some students.