Is Moore Safe, Pros and cons of living in Moore

Moore, Oklahoma, offers a compelling blend of suburban comfort and urban accessibility, situated just south of the bustling Oklahoma City. This growing community provides a welcoming environment for those seeking a balance between a quieter lifestyle and convenient access to metropolitan amenities. Its strategic location enhances its appeal, placing residents within easy reach of major employment centers, educational institutions, and recreational opportunities.

The city has experienced notable population growth over the past decade, far exceeding state and national rates, indicating a dynamic and expanding community. This growth is supported by an infrastructure that aims to preserve a unique lifestyle while embracing development. Moore strives to maintain a small-town feel, creating a sense of belonging for its residents.

Is it Safe to Live in Moore?

Moore, Oklahoma, presents a mixed but generally favorable safety profile. The overall crime rate is lower than the national average, with violent crime rates significantly below national figures. This suggests that, on average, Moore is a relatively safe place to live, with residents generally considering the eastern parts of the city to be the safest.

However, crime rates can vary by neighborhood, with some central areas experiencing a higher incidence of crime than others. While the city’s crime rate is considered lower than the average US city, it is higher than many other communities within Oklahoma. The chance of being a victim of crime in Moore ranges from approximately 1 in 32 in central neighborhoods to 1 in 78 in the east, according to neighborhood analyses.

Housing and Cost of Living

The cost of living in Moore is generally considered more affordable than the national average. Data indicates that the overall cost of living is approximately 6% lower than the national average, with housing costs also being lower than the national average. This affordability extends to home prices, which are also below the national median.

While the median home price in Moore is reported to be around $203,438 (as reported by Livability.com), other sources indicate a median listing price of $249,900 (as reported by realtor.com®) and an average home value of $222,549 (as reported by Zillow). The median monthly rent is approximately $954 (as reported by Apartments.com), which is also significantly lower than the national average. These figures suggest that Moore offers a relatively accessible housing market for both buyers and renters.

Housing Costs

Moore’s housing market presents a balanced landscape for potential residents. The median home value stands at approximately $222,549 (as reported by Zillow), showing a slight increase over the past year. For those considering renting, the average monthly rent is around $954 (as reported by Apartments.com), making it more affordable than many other cities in the U.S.

The median listing price for homes is around $249,900 (as reported by realtor.com®), with a median sale price of $210,333 as of February 2026 (as reported by Zillow). These figures reflect a market that is generally stable, offering opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

Cost of Living Breakdown

Moore’s cost of living is favorable, with an index that is 6% lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). This affordability is influenced by various factors, including housing, transportation, and utilities. Food costs in Moore are also noted as being more affordable than the U.S. average (as reported by ERI SalaryExpert).

The city’s cost of living is comparable to the Oklahoma average, being 0% higher than the state average (as reported by Livability.com). This balance makes Moore an attractive option for individuals and families looking to manage their expenses effectively while enjoying a good quality of life.

Job Market and Economy

Moore’s economy is supported by a diverse range of industries and a stable job market. The most prominent employment sectors for residents include healthcare and social assistance, retail trade, and educational services. These sectors provide a substantial number of job opportunities within the city.

The unemployment rate in Moore was reported at 3.8% in 2026 (as reported by Data Commons), which is generally considered a healthy rate. The city’s proximity to Oklahoma City also provides residents with access to a broader job market and more diverse employment options. Major employers in the area include large retail chains and healthcare systems, contributing to the local economy.

Major Employers

Several key employers form the backbone of Moore’s economy, providing significant employment opportunities for residents. Major companies such as Walmart, Costco Wholesale, and FedEx have a notable presence in the area, offering a wide range of positions. Additionally, healthcare systems like Norman Regional Health System are substantial employers, serving the health and wellness needs of the community.

Other significant employers include retail giants like Target and ALDI, alongside service providers such as McDonald’s and Starbucks. Manufacturing companies like Berry Global and Schwan’s Company also contribute to the employment landscape, offering diverse roles across various sectors.

Average Salary and Income

The average annual salary in Moore is approximately $42,088 as of April 2026 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). This figure translates to about $20.23 per hour, providing a benchmark for earnings within the city. The median household income in Moore was reported as $80,420 in 2024 (as reported by Data Commons), indicating a strong income level for families.

Salaries can vary significantly based on occupation and experience, with top-paying jobs including dentists and police chiefs. The median income for a family in Moore was $47,773 according to 2020 census data (as reported by Wikipedia), though more recent data suggests a higher median household income.

Unemployment Rate

The unemployment rate in Moore was 3.8% in 2026 (as reported by Data Commons), indicating a stable job market. This rate is generally considered healthy and is in line with the broader economic conditions in Oklahoma. The state’s unemployment rate was 3.9% in February 2026 (as reported by USAFacts).

This low unemployment rate suggests that most individuals seeking employment in Moore are able to find it, contributing to the overall economic well-being of the community. The proximity to Oklahoma City further enhances employment prospects for Moore residents.

Climate and Weather

Moore, Oklahoma, experiences a climate characterized by significant temperature variations throughout the year. Summers are typically hot and humid, with average high temperatures reaching into the low 90s Fahrenheit, while winters are cold with temperatures often dropping into the 30s Fahrenheit.

The city receives a moderate amount of precipitation annually, averaging around 36 to 38 inches, with May typically being the wettest month. Snowfall is generally light, averaging about 5 to 6 inches per year. The best times to visit or enjoy outdoor activities are generally in the spring and fall, when temperatures are more moderate.

Average Temperatures

During the summer months, Moore can experience hot temperatures, with July and August seeing average highs around 93°F. The coolest temperatures occur in January, with average highs around 50°F and lows near 28°F (as reported by myPerfectWeather and Wikipedia). This wide temperature range necessitates different wardrobe choices depending on the season.

The comfortable weather, with daily high temperatures between 65°F and 86°F and low humidity, typically occurs from April to May and again from mid-September to October. These periods offer pleasant conditions for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

Rainfall and Precipitation

Moore receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 36 to 38 inches (as reported by Livability.com and myPerfectWeather). May is generally the wettest month, with around 5 to 6.4 inches of rain spread over an average of 11 to 12 days (as reported by myPerfectWeather and Weather & Climate).

January is typically the driest month, with about 1 inch of rain over an average of 4 days (as reported by myPerfectWeather). This pattern of precipitation means that while rain is distributed throughout the year, certain months are significantly wetter than others.

Education and Schools

Moore Public Schools is a highly-rated public school district serving the city. It is recognized for its strong academic performance and commitment to student success. The district consistently ranks among the top in Oklahoma for various educational metrics.

With a large student population, Moore Public Schools offers a diverse educational environment. The district’s graduation rate is commendably high, reflecting a focus on ensuring students complete their secondary education.

School District Rankings

Moore School District is ranked within the top 20% of all school districts in Oklahoma, based on combined math and reading proficiency testing data for the 2022-2023 school year (as reported by Public School Review). The district also boasts a high graduation rate of 88%, which has shown an increase over recent years.

Students in Moore Public Schools demonstrate strong proficiency in math and reading compared to state averages. The district is also noted for its diversity, ranking among the top districts in Oklahoma for its diverse student body.

Elementary School Performance

Several elementary schools within Moore are recognized for their exceptional performance and high ratings. Schools like South Lake Elementary, Oakridge Elementary, Wayland Bonds Elementary, and Fisher Elementary are consistently ranked among the top elementary schools in Oklahoma (as reported by SchoolDigger). These schools often achieve 5-star ratings and outperform district and state averages in key academic areas.

These high-performing schools show proficiency rates in English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science that are significantly higher than those in lower-performing schools within the district. This indicates a strong foundation being laid for younger students in Moore.

Demographics

Moore, Oklahoma, is a growing city with a diverse population. As of the 2020 census, the population was 62,793, and projections indicate continued growth. The city’s demographic makeup is predominantly White, with significant Hispanic and other racial and ethnic groups represented.

The median age in Moore is around 34 years, indicating a mix of younger families and older residents. The population density is considerable, reflecting its status as a significant part of the Oklahoma City metropolitan area.

Racial and Ethnic Composition

The racial composition of Moore is approximately 66.4% White, 13.1% Hispanic, and 8.7% identifying as two or more races, according to recent estimates (as reported by Census Dots and Data USA). Black or African American residents make up about 5.5% of the population, with Native American and Asian populations also present.

While White residents form the majority, the presence of substantial Hispanic and multiracial communities contributes to the city’s diversity. This demographic profile is comparable to, and in some aspects more diverse than, the state of Oklahoma overall.

Age Distribution and Gender

The median age in Moore is approximately 34.1 years (as reported by Data Commons). The population distribution shows about 26.6% of residents are under 18 years old, and 11.9% are 65 years of age or older (as reported by Wikipedia). This age structure suggests a community with a significant proportion of working-age adults and families.

For every 100 females, there are approximately 93.6 males in Moore (as reported by Data Commons). This slight imbalance in gender representation is consistent across various age groups within the city.

Pros and Cons of Living in Moore

Pros

Moore offers a cost of living that is lower than the national average, making it an economically attractive place to live. The housing market, both for buying and renting, is relatively affordable compared to many other U.S. cities. Its proximity to Oklahoma City provides convenient access to a wider range of job opportunities, amenities, and cultural attractions.

The city boasts a well-regarded public school system, with several elementary schools receiving high rankings for academic performance. Moore also provides a generally safe environment, with crime rates lower than the national average, particularly in terms of violent crime.

Cons

While generally safe, crime rates in Moore are higher than some other Oklahoma cities, and crime can be concentrated in certain neighborhoods. The climate experiences extreme temperature variations, with hot summers and cold winters, which may not appeal to everyone.

The cost of living, while lower than the national average, is higher than the average for Oklahoma. Some areas of the city experience more crime than others, requiring residents to be aware of their surroundings. Additionally, there can be significant performance gaps between the highest and lowest-performing schools within the district, potentially linked to socioeconomic factors.