Best Oklahoma Cities for Small Businesses

Choosing the right city is critical for entrepreneurs looking to start or grow a business. Factors like local economic conditions, tax rates, and access to commercial space can significantly impact a business’s ability to thrive.

To help small business owners find the most promising locations, the B2B Reviews Research Team analyzed key data points—including city and state population, number of employer firms, county sales tax rate, and average commercial real estate rent—to identify which cities in Oklahoma provide the strongest support for small business success.

As Oklahoma continues to foster economic growth and encourage innovation, our rankings highlight the cities that stand out—and those that may need improvement. Whether launching a new venture or expanding your operations, this analysis can guide you toward the best opportunities in the Sooner State.

Be sure to review our methodology to see how we determined our rankings.

Top 10 Cities in Oklahoma for Small Businesses

1. Stillwater

Stillwater claimed the number one spot in our rankings as a prime location for small business success. With a total weighted score of 70.61 out of 100, the city ranked in the top 10 for the highest city population and percentage of employer firms, signaling a strong and supportive business community. In addition to its thriving entrepreneurial environment, Stillwater boasts one of the state’s lowest county sales tax rates at just 9.81%, giving business owners a financial edge. This combination of economic vitality and affordability makes Stillwater a standout choice for entrepreneurs looking to launch or expand their ventures in Oklahoma.

• City population: 49,525
• City population as a percentage of the state: 1.21%
• Percent Increase of Population from 2020-2023: 2.35%
• Percent of Employer Firms: 1.43%
• County Sales Tax Rates: 9.81%
• Average Commercial Real Estate Rent per Square Foot: $24

2. Broken Arrow

Thanks to its strong economic foundation and vibrant business landscape, Broken Arrow ranked second. As the fourth-largest city in Oklahoma, it offers a sizable customer base and workforce, creating ample growth opportunities. It also ranked fifth in the highest percentage of employer firms, reflecting a solid presence of established businesses and a supportive environment for entrepreneurs. With its scale and thriving business community, Broken Arrow stands out as a top destination for small business owners looking to succeed in the Sooner State.

• City population: 119,194
• City population as a percentage of the state: 2.91%
• Percent Increase of Population from 2020-2023: 4.62%
• Percent of Employer Firms: 3.02%
• County Sales Tax Rates: 13.02%
• Average Commercial Real Estate Rent per Square Foot: $36

3. Newcastle

Newcastle, driven by rapid growth and a business-friendly tax environment, earned third in our rankings. The city experienced the highest percentage increase in population from 2020 to 2023, signaling strong momentum and rising demand for goods and services—an ideal scenario for small businesses looking to grow. Adding to its appeal, Newcastle ranked third for the lowest county sales tax rate, helping business owners keep more revenue. With a booming population and favorable economic conditions, Newcastle is quickly becoming a hot spot for entrepreneurs in Oklahoma.

• City population: 14,001
• City population as a percentage of the state: 0.34%
• Percent Increase of Population from 2020-2023: 25.34%
• Percent of Employer Firms: 0.39%
• County Sales Tax Rates: 9.50%
• Average Commercial Real Estate Rent per Square Foot: $21

4. Bartlesville

Bartlesville landed fourth overall in our rankings, partly thanks to its strong population base and established community infrastructure. Ranking in the top 15 for the highest city population in Oklahoma, Bartlesville offers a solid market size for small businesses to tap into. A larger population often means greater customer demand and a more diverse local economy—key ingredients for long-term business success. With its steady growth and supportive environment, Bartlesville stands out as a reliable and promising location for entrepreneurs nationwide.

• City population: 38,114
• City population as a percentage of the state: 0.93%
• Percent Increase of Population from 2020-2023: 1.96%
• Percent of Employer Firms: 0.96%
• County Sales Tax Rates: 10.00%
• Average Commercial Real Estate Rent per Square Foot: $26

5. Shawnee

Shawnee secured the fifth spot, thanks to its well-rounded appeal for small businesses. The city ranked in the top 15 across three key metrics: highest city population, highest percentage of employer firms, and lowest average commercial real estate rent. This combination suggests a thriving business community, a strong local market, and affordable overhead costs—essential for entrepreneurial success. With its balance of size, support, and affordability, Shawnee offers a strategic and cost-effective environment for small business owners looking to make their mark in Oklahoma.

• City population: 31,803
• City population as a percentage of the state: 0.78%
• Percent Increase of Population from 2020-2023: 1.55%
• Percent of Employer Firms: 0.99%
• County Sales Tax Rates: 10.50%
• Average Commercial Real Estate Rent per Square Foot: $21

6. Owasso

Owasso earned a strong position in our rankings by demonstrating consistency across several key indicators of small business potential. The city placed 11th for highest population, population growth from 2020 to 2023, and percentage of employer firms—showcasing a healthy blend of size, momentum, and entrepreneurial activity. This steady performance suggests a growing community with a solid foundation of businesses already in place, making Owasso an attractive option for entrepreneurs seeking stability and opportunity in the Oklahoma market.

• City population: 41,162
• City population as a percentage of the state: 1.01%
• Percent Increase of Population from 2020-2023: 7.21%
• Percent of Employer Firms: 1.30%
• County Sales Tax Rates: 13.02%
• Average Commercial Real Estate Rent per Square Foot: $34

7. Ardmore

Ardmore is a potential destination for small businesses, ranked 8th in the state as having the highest percentage of employer firms. This reflects a strong entrepreneurial environment with a healthy new-firm support system. In addition, Ardmore has one of the lowest county sales tax rates in the state, creating a great economic setting for business entrepreneurs. Together, these make Ardmore an appealing option for businessmen who wish to thrive in a growing and commerce-friendly society.

• City population: 24,847
• City population as a percentage of the state: 0.61%
• Percent Increase of Population from 2020-2023: 0.48%
• Percent of Employer Firms: 1.51%
• County Sales Tax Rates: 9.88%
• Average Commercial Real Estate Rent per Square Foot: $26

8. Sapulpa

Sapulpa has shown notable growth and fiscal advantage, making it an appealing spot for small businesses. The city has seen an increase in population in recent years, reflecting a growing community and expanding market opportunities. In addition to its growth, Sapulpa benefits from one of the state’s lowest county sales tax rates, ranking in the top 20, offering business owners a more favorable financial environment. With these factors combined, Sapulpa provides a supportive and cost-effective setting for entrepreneurs looking to establish or grow their businesses.

• City population: 22,981
• City population as a percentage of the state: 0.56%
• Percent Increase of Population from 2020-2023: 4.52%
• Percent of Employer Firms: 0.78%
• County Sales Tax Rates: 10.17%
• Average Commercial Real Estate Rent per Square Foot: $27

9. Guthrie

​Guthrie is a low-sales tax value-for-money site for small companies with good sales tax conditions and affordable commercial property prices. Its sales tax level is appreciably less than the state’s maximum rate, providing value for money where company operations will occur. Also, commercial properties are affordable in Guthrie at around $18 per square foot, an even cheaper option than many other city locations across the state. This blend of tax-friendly laws and affordable real estate prices makes Guthrie attractive for entrepreneurs seeking a welcoming and affordable setting.

• City population: 11,398
• City population as a percentage of the state: 0.28%
• Percent Increase of Population from 2020-2023: 5.66%
• Percent of Employer Firms: 0.45%
• County Sales Tax Rates: 9.75%
• Average Commercial Real Estate Rent per Square Foot: $18

10. Jenks

Rounding out the top 10, Jenks has been a thriving center of small businesses, marked by high growth and thriving business conditions. The growth in population shows a vibrant population and increasing business prospects. On the financial side, Jenks offers a good business environment for entrepreneurs with competitive commercial properties available for rent, including shops and offices, at affordable rates. Population growth and low-cost commercial space make Jenks an attractive area for business people seeking an affordable and welcoming environment to establish their businesses.

• City population: 27,553
• City population as a percentage of the state: 0.67%
• Percent Increase of Population from 2020-2023: 5.66%
• Percent of Employer Firms: 0.64%
• County Sales Tax Rates: 13.02%
• Average Commercial Real Estate Rent per Square Foot: $23

Methodology

B2B Reviews analyzed cities across Oklahoma using key factors to determine the best locations for small businesses. These factors include population size, population growth, percentage of employer firms, county sales tax rates, and average commercial real estate rent.

Each city was ranked based on these factors, earning a score according to its weighted value. The cities were then evaluated on a 100-point scale, with 100 points representing the most favorable environment for small business success in Oklahoma.

City Population as a Percentage of the State — Total 20 Points

We collected data on the population of each city in Oklahoma compared to the population of the state. Cities with a higher percentage of the state’s population received higher scores.

Percentage of Population Growth (2020-2023) — Total 20 Points

We calculated population growth by comparing the change from 2020 to 2023 against the 2020 population, with cities showing greater growth receiving higher scores.

Percentage of Employer Firms — Total 20 Points

Cities with a higher percentage of employer firms scored better overall, calculated by dividing the city’s total number of employer firms by the state’s total.

County Sales Tax Rate — Total 20 Points

We combined the state tax rate with each county’s tax rate to determine the overall tax percentage. Cities with lower combined tax rates received higher scores.

Average Commercial Real Estate Rent (per square foot) — Total 20 Points

We analyzed the rent per square foot for each city, ranking them from the least expensive to the most expensive. Cities with lower rent prices received higher scores.

The Bottom Line

Oklahoma offers a vibrant environment for small businesses, with cities across the state providing diverse opportunities for entrepreneurs. Our rankings highlight the best cities based on key factors such as population size, population growth, employer firms, tax rates, and commercial real estate affordability. Stillwater ranks as the top city for small businesses, thanks to its strong growth, business-friendly atmosphere, and supportive community.

B2B Reviews conducted these comparisons to help business owners decide where to establish and grow their businesses. Whether you’re seeking a booming economy, low operating costs, or a large customer base, Oklahoma has a city that fits your business needs.

For small business owners and entrepreneurs, we recommend you:

• Explore business-friendly policies in your potential city.
• Assess commercial real estate costs when choosing a location.
• Leverage local business support and networking organizations.
• Stay informed about funding sources and tax credits.
• Choose a city with strong population trends to ensure long-term growth.

By strategically selecting the right city and making the most of local resources, small business leaders can position themselves for lasting success in Oklahoma’s dynamic economy.

Fair Use Statement

Feel free to share our findings for non-commercial purposes; however, please provide a link back to this page so readers can see our full methodology.