True Cost of Renting in Norman
Norman is the University of Oklahoma's college town — a community of 125,000 that exists in symbiosis with a flagship state university of 27,000+ students. Campus Corner is the walkable hub of Off-Campus student life. OU football Saturdays turn the city into a sea of crimson and cream. OG&E electric serves the city with affordable rates.
Neighborhoods & Average Rents
Campus Corner
- Studio:
- $650/mo
- 1 Bed:
- $800/mo
- 2 Bed:
- $1,100/mo
Norman's walkable student neighborhood north of OU campus; bars, restaurants, and shops along Boyd Street and University Blvd. Mix of older student apartments and newer mid-rises. Lease terms often follow academic year. Limited parking in dense blocks — many buildings charge $25–50/mo for a spot.
South Norman / 24th Ave
- 1 Bed:
- $900/mo
- 2 Bed:
- $1,300/mo
Suburban apartment complexes south of the OU campus; more families and graduate students than undergrads. Newer construction stock. Car-dependent but close to I-35 and Riverwind Casino. Norman Regional Hospital is a major local employer.
East Norman / University North Park
- 1 Bed:
- $950/mo
- 2 Bed:
- $1,350/mo
Newer development in northeast Norman near University North Park retail; apartment complexes with resort amenities. Further from campus but easier I-35 access to OKC (20 miles north). Professional renter demographic.
Utility Providers
- Electric
- OG&E (Oklahoma Gas and Electric)
- Water
- City of Norman Water and Wastewater
- Internet
- Cox Communications, AT&T Internet, T-Mobile Home Internet
Commute & Transportation
Norman is 20 miles south of OKC via I-35. The EMBARK Express Bus service provides commuter runs between Norman's Campus Corner transit center and Downtown OKC — a viable car-free OKC commute option. I-35 peak rush is manageable compared to Texas metros. OU is the dominant local employer alongside Norman Regional Hospital and Cleveland County government. Moore (a suburb between Norman and OKC) was devastated by a 2013 EF5 tornado — tornado preparedness is important throughout Cleveland County.
Rental Market Overview
Norman rents are driven by OU's enrollment cycle — demand peaks in August before fall semester and dips in summer. Renters willing to sign annual leases in May–June often get better rates than those signing in August. OG&E electric rates are affordable — summer cooling bills for a 1BR run $90–160/month. The express bus to OKC makes Norman viable for OKC workers who want a college-town atmosphere at lower rents. Tornado risk is meaningful — the 2013 Moore tornado devastated areas just north of Norman. Renters insurance with wind/hail coverage runs $18–28/month.
Data last updated: 2026-04
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