Oklahoma is a state with native heritage, also known as the Sooner State. It is a place of family, tourism, history, and adventure, depending on how you see it. The crime rate is not the highest in the country, nor is it low. It was ranked 16th in violent crime according to the data reported to the FBI as of 2022 (source: oklahomawatch.org). After being from the Correctional Center or State Penitentiary the next move is to get your life together. Look for a job, an apartment/housing. That’s where we come in. To provide you with sources and how you can get housing in Oklahoma for former felons.
Housing In Oklahoma For Former Felons
Oklahoma is a state where felons can easily be reinstated and live well. There are jobs available in most of its community that employ ex-cons, especially those that show skills, value, and rehabilitation. You can get housing or apartments in Oklahoma as an ex-felon if you follow the tips below.
Websites/Online Search
You can start searching on Google for apartments. Many websites on Google search results will aid you. See the price list and contact information to call for a booking. You can search with appropriate keywords that fit your situation and what you’re looking for.
Private Landlords
There are Landlords or private property owners who are willing to rent to you but you just have to be patient to get them.
The chances of getting an apartment from a private owner are higher than a cooperation or housing complex handled by one.
Most landlords will give housing to those who are willing to pay well and keep the apartment well. And not all carry out a background check but you still have to be honest about your history with the law. When reaching out to landlords or property management companies, be honest about your criminal record. Don’t risk lying and being denied in the process.
Some of these landlords and property owners work with or accept people on Section 8 housing assistance. That can be explored too.
Offering to pay a little higher and upfront helps secure an apartment. Negotiate properly and show that you have the cash ready to secure the unit.
Rejection And Landlords Discrimination
There is no known law in the State of Oklahoma against felons getting housing or renting an apartment. And there is no law too for landlords to accept or rent their property to a felon. The US Fair Housing Act does not explicitly address individuals with criminal records, granting landlords the discretion to rent, lease, or deny housing to former felons.
References And Recommendations
There should be close friends and family who can be references to your landlords and vouch for you. People such as fellow employees, support group leaders, and probation officers.
A good rental history and no history of eviction from former apartments count a lot.
Also, note that most landlords will rent/deny a felon based on the type of crime committed and how long ago.
Non-Profit And Religious Organizations
These organizations help former felons and released prisoners for a good reentry into society. They provide skills training needed and recommendations for job offers and housing. Oklahoma Jail & Prison Ministries is one out of many for instance. Search online for more non-profit organizations in your area in Oklahoma. There are many and numerous to mention. You can call them and ask for help.
Oklahoma City Housing Authority
This is like Section 8. Also operated by the government. They provide housing assistance to people (including individuals with criminal records) with low income. Restriction applies to certain types of felonies and their length. Individuals who wish to get housing through the Oklahoma City Housing Authority will have to apply and wait until they’re approved. Sometimes the wait might take months.
Low Crime And Affordable Places In Oklahoma
Oklahoma is not a state with very high rental prices depending on the area. Rental price ranges from an average of $600 to $800 per month for one bed and up to $1200 for two beds. The crime rates can vary in different parts of these cities. These cities have very little crime, houses that are not expensive, and a strong feeling of community. They are nice places to live for most because they provide a good life at a fair price.
These are a few places with the cheapest apartment prices and very low crime where one can get a fresh start.
Altus
Altus is a small town not far from Oklahoma City. It has the feel of an old countryside. The average rent for an apartment in Altus is $700 – $800.
Del City
With an average rent of $650 per month. Del City is perfect for anyone just reinstating and it has a median household income of $45000.
Glenpool
This city is close to Tulsa and a great place for families as it has many amenities and jobs. Median household income is $70000 and rent is about $900 per month.
Ponca City
Ponca is an oil-producing city, and it’s affordable, with an average home rent of $750 monthly. It is an economically rich city, home to a lot of big businesses and a low unemployment rate.
Muskogee
A city in Eastern Oklahoma with a home rent of $700 per month. The cost of living in Muskogee is relatively low. Muskogee has a higher crime rate than other places mentioned.
Other places to consider are:
- Owasso
- Edmond
- Okmulgee
- Tahlequah
Explore nearby states:
Conclusion
Getting a house to call home in Oklahoma as a felon is very possible with persistence and meeting the right landlord.
Go through the numerous religious communities and support groups in Oklahoma to help you find the right housing unit you need. Also, you can use apartment locators and agents that are skillful in getting an apartment despite your criminal history. Try public housing and housing authority in Oklahoma. Note that having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from public housing. Be honest and show people that you’re a changed person.
