12 Reasons Why You Should Never Ever Consider Moving to Oklahoma

Oklahoma, where the winds come sweeping down the plains and the cowboy spirit is still alive and kicking. If you’re considering a move to the Sooner State, you might want to grab your cowboy hat and think again. Here are 12 reasons why Oklahoma might not be the place for you—unless you’re ready for big skies, big storms, and an endless supply of “y’all.”

The weather is wildly unpredictable

Oklahoma can throw all four seasons at you in a single day. One minute it’s sunny, the next you’re ducking for cover from a tornado, and by evening it could be snowing.

Tornadoes are practically a state symbol

You’ll get used to tornado sirens and storm watches like they’re just a regular part of the day. If you’re not a fan of hunkering down during severe weather, Oklahoma might have you on edge.

Football fandom is fierce

OU Sooners or OSU Cowboys—pick a side, and choose wisely. This rivalry is serious business, and neutrality just isn’t an option in Oklahoma.

It’s flat… really flat

In Oklahoma, the horizon goes on forever. If you’re looking for hills and mountains, you’ll be disappointed—Oklahoma’s landscape is a whole lot of flat with a side of more flat.

Fried food is a way of life

Fried okra, fried chicken, and fried pies—Oklahomans can (and will) fry anything. Health nuts, beware; you’ll need to embrace some extra grease in your diet here.

Country music is everywhere

Oklahoma’s produced some of the biggest stars in country music, and you’ll hear it everywhere. If you’re not a fan of twang, you might find yourself singing a different tune soon enough.

You’ll see cowboys, real cowboys

Cowboy hats, boots, and belt buckles are standard attire for many Oklahomans. If you’re not into the western vibe, prepare to stand out.

You’ll develop a strong “y’all” habit

Oklahoma has a charm all its own, and before long, “y’all” will sneak into your vocabulary. Say goodbye to “you all”—Oklahoma’s Southern drawl is contagious.

Oil culture runs deep

The oil industry is a major part of life in Oklahoma, with pumpjacks dotting the landscape. Get ready to learn more about crude oil than you ever wanted to know.

Barbecue will ruin you for other foods

Oklahoma BBQ is an art form, and it’ll set a high standard for flavor. Once you’ve tried real smoked brisket, nothing else will ever compare.

The wind never stops

They weren’t kidding when they wrote about Oklahoma’s “sweeping” winds. If you enjoy a good hair day, it won’t happen often here.

You’ll have to learn the meaning of “Sooner” and “Okie”

The state has some unique nicknames, and if you don’t know your Sooners from your Okies, you’re bound to get a history lesson (or two).

So, if you’re still dreaming of life on the plains, just remember that Oklahoma is a place where fried food, football rivalries, and windy days are all in ample supply. But if you can handle the storms, embrace “y’all,” and pick up some BBQ habits, Oklahoma just might feel like home in no time.