Getty Images
Solo homeownership is on the rise—but it isn’t easy. According to recent data from the National Association of Realtors®, 62% of buyers were married couples, while just 20% were single women and only 8% were single men. With only one income to rely on, many of these buyers face tighter budgets and higher hurdles in achieving their dream of homeownership.
But in some states, the numbers still work. Oklahoma ranks No. 6 on the list of the most affordable states for solo buyers.
Thanks to low housing costs and moderate income requirements, it’s a place where one income can still go a long way.
Where Housing Remains Within Reach
Oklahoma’s median home price stands at $306,900, with a typical monthly mortgage payment (excluding taxes and insurance) of $1,644. For a single person to live comfortably, SmartAsset estimates an income of $83,574 a year is needed—just under the threshold seen in several neighboring states.
However, in some U.S. regions, solo earners need to break six figures just to afford the basics,
such as Hawaii ($124,467), New York ($114,691), and even nearby Colorado ($105,165). That makes Oklahoma’s housing market especially attractive to those flying solo, whether they’re first-time buyers or mid-career professionals ready to settle down.
“Owning a home on one income may be feasible in affordable states in the Midwest and the South,” says Hannah Jones, senior economic research analyst at Realtor.com®. Oklahoma hits the sweet spot, combining housing affordability with a low cost of living and strong job market.
Savvy Shoppers With a Clear Vision
For solo buyers, smart budgeting is essential. “They do want something smaller,” says Brooke Nelson, a real estate agent in Missouri who works with one-income buyers. “The single person that’s buying homes right now seems to be pretty responsible as far as their finances go”.
That often translates to modest, move-in-ready homes with updated systems—especially important for one-income households that might not have extra cash for surprise repairs. “They’re really looking for things that are more complete from a seller that has maintained it well,” Nelson adds.
In Oklahoma, many listings check those boxes. Whether it’s a cozy single family home in the suburbs or a fixer-upper in a smaller town, buyers have options that align with their budgets and long-term goals.
A Financial Head Start for Solo Buyers
While national data doesn’t offer equity gains by filing status in Oklahoma specifically, broader trends show that homeownership—especially in lower-cost states—can be a powerful wealth-building tool for one-income households. By locking in stable housing costs, solo buyers can avoid the volatility of renting and gradually build equity over time.
That’s particularly valuable in a market like Oklahoma’s, where prices are still well below the national median, and inventory hasn’t been as squeezed as in coastal metros. According to Jones, even in today’s market, there are still opportunities: “Single home shoppers may have to compromise on the type or size of home, or the location, to achieve homeownership on just one income”.
A Smart Move for Going Solo
Oklahoma isn’t just affordable—it’s livable. With reasonable income requirements, solid inventory, and a strong value proposition, it’s one of the best states where a solo buyer can confidently make the leap from renting to owning.
And with tools like a mortgage calculator or rent vs. buy calculator, it’s easier than ever to make the numbers work. For those looking to buy a home on a single income, Oklahoma offers a clear path to stability, comfort, and long-term success.
This article was produced with editorial input from Dina Sartore-Bodo, Gabriella Iannetta, and Allaire Conte.