Moving to Edmond, OK: The Complete 2026 Relocation Guide:

Last Updated: February 2026

Thinking about making Edmond, Oklahoma your home in 2026? Whether you’re drawn by the consistent Blue Ribbon rankings of Edmond Public Schools, the wholesome, family-friendly atmosphere found in our local parks and festivals, or the suburban charm of neighborhoods like Town Square or Iron Horse Ranch, you’re looking at one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest.

Located just a 20-minute commute down I-35 or the Broadway Extension from Oklahoma City, Edmond offers a unique blend of manicured landscapes and a bustling, walkable downtown. But moving here is about more than just finding a house; it’s about navigating Deer Creek school boundaries, understanding the local City of Edmond utility perks, and deciding if the 'quiet life' north of Kilpatrick Turnpike fits your lifestyle. This guide breaks down the essential facts, costs, and 'local-only' secrets you need to know before you pack the first box.

Education: A Legacy of Excellence

Edmond isn’t just a city with good schools; it is a city built around its schools. Edmond Public Schools (EPS) is the benchmark for education in Oklahoma, consistently outperforming state and national averages in nearly every category.

Academic Prowess

  • Top 1% Rankings: Schools like Central Middle School are National Blue Ribbon winners, and the district as a whole maintains an A+ rating from Niche.

  • College Readiness: EPS high schools boast some of the highest ACT scores in the state (averaging 23.5+), with a heavy emphasis on Advanced Placement (AP) programs.

  • Modern Facilities: The district is currently in a phase of significant expansion. The 2026 Bond Election is set to fund the completion of Post Oak Elementary and Horizon Middle School, alongside major upgrades to the Freshman Academy at Edmond Santa Fe.

Innovative Programs

Beyond traditional academics, Edmond offers specialized paths including STEM-focused labs at the elementary level and robust Fine Arts and Athletics programs that are among the most decorated in the region.

Safety & Security: Our Top Priority

For many families relocating to Edmond, the "peace of mind" factor is the primary draw. Edmond is statistically one of the safest cities in the U.S. for populations over 75,000.

A Proactive Approach

  • Safe School Initiatives: Safety isn’t just about low crime; it’s about preparation. EPS utilizes advanced security upgrades including secure entries, badge readers, and "Safe Search" digital monitoring to protect students both physically and online.

  • Weather Readiness: Being in the heart of Oklahoma, Edmond takes storm safety seriously. The city maintains a Shelter Registration Program, and all new school constructions include state-of-the-art storm shelters and hardened safe rooms.

  • Community Policing: With a violent crime rate 71% lower than the state average, the Edmond Police Department focuses on community engagement and rapid response, contributing to the city’s reputation as a "low-stress" living environment.

Lifestyle: The Edmond "Vibe"

Living in Edmond feels like a permanent upgrade to your quality of life. It’s a place where luxury meets local charm.

Community & Culture

  • Downtown Edmond: The heart of the city is a walkable hub of local boutiques and "foodie" favorites like Mule (gourmet grilled cheese) and Evoke.

  • Signature Events: Experience the community spirit at Heard on Hurd, a monthly street festival and The Edmond Farmers Market on Saturdays throughout the spring and summer.

  • The Great Outdoors: With 33 miles of trails and over 30 parks, Edmond is built for the active. Mitch Park and Hafer Park serve as community anchors, while Arcadia Lake offers a nearby escape for boating, fishing, and camping.

Neighborhood Spotlight

  • Luxury & Golf: Neighborhoods like Oak Tree and Rose Creek offer gated security and championship golf courses.

  • Family Favorites: Iron Horse Ranch and Town Square are renowned for their resort-style pools, active HOAs, and proximity to the newest schools in the district.

Moving to Edmond: Frequently Asked Questions

  • The City of Edmond provides a "one-stop shop" for most residential utilities, including electricity, water, wastewater, and trash collection.

    • Contact: You can establish service online at edmondok.gov/utilities or by calling (405) 359-4541.

    • Deposit: A deposit is typically required unless you can provide a "Letter of Prior Payment History" from a previous electric provider showing 12 months of on-time payments.

    • Natural gas is provided by ONG https://www.oklahomanaturalgas.com/

  • Property taxes in Edmond average around 0.87% to 1.1% of the home's market value, which is below the national average.

    • Homestead Exemption: New residents must file for the Homestead Exemption by March 15th with the Oklahoma County Assessor to receive a $1,000 reduction in assessed value.

    • Senior Freeze: For 2026, homeowners aged 65+ with a household income under $99,000 may qualify for a valuation freeze to prevent tax spikes as home values rise.

  • Yes, Edmond is located in a high-activity region for severe weather. However, the city is extremely well-prepared:

    • Shelter Registration: The city offers a free Storm Shelter Registration program so first responders know where to look for you after a storm.

    • School Safety: All newer Edmond Public Schools are built with hardened safe rooms or state-of-the-art storm shelters.

    • Preparedness: Most residents use weather apps and local news (KFOR, KOCO, or KWTV) for real-time tracking

  • While both are premier districts, they are separate entities.

    • Edmond Public Schools (EPS): Covers the majority of the city. Known for being the #1 district in the state with a massive range of extracurriculars.

    • Deer Creek Schools: Serves the western "wedge" of Edmond and parts of NW Oklahoma City. It offers a slightly smaller, "boutique" district feel while maintaining equally high academic rankings.

    • Tip: Always verify the specific school boundary for a property before buying, as an "Edmond" mailing address does not always guarantee EPS enrollment.

  • Edmond is a "20-minute city."

    • Downtown OKC: A typical commute via I-35 or the Broadway Extension takes 20–25 minutes.

    • Rush Hour: During peak times (7:30 AM – 8:30 AM), expect that commute to stretch to 30–40 minutes.

    • The Turnpike: Many residents use the Kilpatrick Turnpike for a faster, toll-based route to the west side of the metro (Paycom, Mercy Hospital, etc.).

  • Item descWhile Oklahoma is affordable, Edmond has a few specific costs:

    • HOA Dues: Most modern Edmond neighborhoods have mandatory Homeowners Association fees ranging from $300 to over $1,000 annually to maintain neighborhood pools and common areas.

    • Sales Tax: The combined sales tax in Edmond is 8.25%.

    • Utilities in Summer: Expect higher electric bills in July and August due to heavy air conditioning use; many residents use the city’s Average Monthly Payment Plan to level out these costs.ription

GET IN TOUCH:

No matter where you are in the process, I’d love to help you take the next step. If you are looking to buy or sell a home in Edmond, Oklahoma or you are interested in real estate video services, reach out anytime. I’m happy to answer questions or talk through options.

Email: thomas@westandmainok.com

Phone: (512) 831-8523