Is Oklahoma Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Oklahoma is one of the 50 states in the United States located in the south-central region of the country.

The population of the state is over 3.8 million, and the largest and most populated city is Oklahoma City.

Oklahoma received its name from two Native American Choctaw words – “okla” and “humma” meaning “read people”.

However, this state is often called The Great Plains State or The Sooner State.

Warnings & Dangers in Oklahoma

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Compared to other states in the US, Oklahoma has a higher crime rate. In fact, according to USA Today, Oklahoma is number 12 in its list of states with the most violent crimes. In one of the recent studies, 43% of the population of Oklahoma expressed a daily level of high concern for their safety. This level, however, is lower than the national average - 47%. Oklahoma City is considered the most dangerous city in the state of Oklahoma.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Sometimes, people in cars be targeted by thieves. There is also the risk of becoming the victim of pickpockets in public transport. Therefore, when you visit Oklahoma and use public transportation, you should be extremely careful and watch your personal belongings all the time.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

As mentioned above, you can become the victim of pickpockets in public transportation. For this reason, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and the people around you, especially when you use your electronics on the streets. It is recommended not to text and walk in order not to display your expensive gadgets.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

The weather in Oklahoma can be unpredictable and even dangerous, especially in summer. The most common natural disasters that hit this state are hurricanes, floods, and forest fires. For this reason, it is extremely important to get ready for any of these natural disasters before the emergency strikes. It is a good idea to check the weather before you travel.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

If you do not want to be mugged when visiting Oklahoma, make sure that you are keeping all your valuable items with you and somewhere where they cannot be seen. Even though violent crimes are not very common against tourists, they still exist.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Terrorism is not a serious issue in Oklahoma, and terrorist attacks do not happen in this state too often. However, it does not mean that you should not be careful in public and packed places. Make sure you are always aware of the surroundings and do not let your guard down.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Unfortunately, the big cities of Oklahoma are full of people who will try to scam you. To minimize the risk of being scammed while visiting this state, pay attention to what is happening around you, do not leave your drink or food unattended, and try not to talk to strangers too much. And if you do, do not give them your personal information and do not share the details of your trip.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

In general, Oklahoma is a safe place for your solo female travelers. However, if you are a woman traveling alone, you still should be careful, especially at night, because women often become targets of criminals. For this reason, you should avoid poorly lit streets and dangerous areas. You should call the police immediately if you notice something suspicious or feel threatened.

TAP WATER RISK: LOW

In most cities and towns in Oklahoma, tap water is safe to drink and is free of harmful substances, toxins, and bacteria. For example, the tap water in Tulsa and Oklahoma City is constantly tested by EPA and DEQ standards.

Safest Places to Visit in Oklahoma

If you are thinking of visiting Oklahoma, here is a list of the most interesting and safest places that are worth visiting and seeing.

The Science Museum Of Oklahoma in Oklahoma City

This unique museum is home to a great number of exclusive exhibits that will impress visitors of all ages.

Most exhibits are interactive and teach about different aspects of science, biology, and physics.

There is also a great selection of live shows to watch, including movies shown on the dome, planetarium shows, lights and shadow shows, a Tesla coil show, and others.

There is also an attraction for younger kids – CurioCity.

It is an indoor city full of challenges, obstacles, and opportunities to explore and learn.

Natural Falls State Park in Colcord

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, and you want to see one of the most scenic places in Oklahoma, then you should visit this 120-acre state-owned park.

The park features the breathtaking 77-foot waterfall that is considered one of the tallest waterfalls in the state.

It is one of the most peaceful state parks in the area that provides visitors with a therapeutic, relaxing, and refreshing experience.

Oklahoma City Zoo In Oklahoma City

Oklahoma Zoo provides visitors with the unique experience and opportunity to see and experience various ecosystems, from tropical jungles to African plains.

It is one of the oldest zoos in the United States that was established over a hundred years ago. It is home to over 500 species of wild animals, including endangered species.

There are also plenty of educational sessions and shows, including giraffe feeding and elephant show.

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge In Lawton

It is the largest wildlife refuge in Oklahoma located in its southwest part.

This refuge with over 59,000 acres of ancient mountains is home to such wild animals as prairie dogs, American bison herds, Texas Longhorn Cattle, coyotes, and bobcats.

Mount Scott is the crowning jewel of the refuge, from the top of which you can marvel at the stunning rock formations, scenic hiking trails, and the patchwork of lakes.

Oklahoma Route 66 Museum In Clinton

Route 66 is one of the most iconic and world-famous roads.

If you want to know more about it, you should visit the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum, where you will find a unique collection of vehicles and memorabilia celebrating this famous American road.

There are numerous displays and exhibitions that you can explore.

In addition, you will be impressed with the diner design style of the building in which this museum is housed.

Places to Avoid in Oklahoma

Like any other state in the US, Oklahoma has certain places that are better to avoid.

Here is a list of some of them:

Tulsa

Tulsa is known as one of the biggest cities in Oklahoma with over 400,000 people.

It is also home to a thriving economy and numerous tourist attractions.

However, unfortunately, the crime rates in Tulsa are quite high and 152% higher than the U.S. average.

It is estimated that you have a 1 in 16 chance of becoming a victim of crime in Tulsa.

According to the recent statistics, there are 1,065 violent crimes per 100,000 people and 5,430 property crimes

Shawnee

Shawnee is a small town located 40 miles east of Oklahoma City.

It is also one of the oldest settlements in the state that was established before the Civil War.

For this reason, it attracts thousands of tourists every year, who want to see its historic downtown.

However, unfortunately, this quiet American town is also known for its very high crime rate that is 113% higher than the national average.

The statistics say that there are 1,349 violent crimes per 100,000 people and 5,142 property crimes per 100,000 people in Shawnee.

Oklahoma City

It is the capital and largest city in Oklahoma with a population of over 655,000 people.

Like many other highly populated and big cities in the United States, it also has a high crime rate.

Every year, over 30,000 crimes are reported in Oklahoma City, and its crime rate is 93% higher than the national average.

There are 867 violent crimes per 100,000 and 4,027 property crimes per 100,000 in Oklahoma City.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Oklahoma

So... How Safe Is Oklahoma Really?

Even though Oklahoma is not considered the safest state in the United States, it is in general a safe destination to visit.

You just need to be careful and stay alert when you are visiting certain places and cities in Oklahoma and follow the safety tips provided in this article.

You also should be extremely careful in the cities and towns with a high crime rate, such as Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Shawnee.

In general, if you take certain precautions, Oklahoma is a safe and enjoyable place for a visit.

How Does Oklahoma Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

If you are not a U.S. citizen or resident, you have to have a visa to enter the United States to visit Oklahoma. There are many types of visas you can apply for, including immigrant, non-immigrant, and student visa categories.

Currency

The official currency used in all states in the United States including Oklahoma is the United States Dollar.

Weather

Oklahoma is known as the state with four seasons. Summers in Oklahoma are hot and humid and winters are cold and windy.

Airports

There are four airports with scheduled flights in Oklahoma: Will Rogers World Airport, Tulsa International Airport, Lawton–Fort Sill Regional Airport, and Stillwater Regional Airport.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is always worth the investment regardless of the duration of your trip. It protects you against any financial losses and incidents that might occur during your trip.

Oklahoma Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Oklahoma - Safety by City