Since you’ve landed on this blog post, I’m guessing you’ve kind of figured out that Blanchard, Oklahoma is kind of a cool town, so let’s dive in and talk about the pros and cons.

Blanchard, Oklahoma, is a charming small town with top-notch amenities, well-maintained roads, and a mix of modern and historic homes. As a real estate agent who helps people buy and sell homes in the area, I can attest to its appeal.

While I don’t live in Blanchard myself, I have gained valuable experience working with clients there. In this blog post, I’ll share my general impressions of the town. Of course, if you’re a Blanchard resident, I welcome your input in the comments section.

My name is Marcie Billen, and I’m based in the Oklahoma City metro area. I live in nearby Norman, so I’m well acquainted with Blanchard’s unique features. As we go through each aspect, I’ll present the pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.

Blanchard’s Proximity

Let’s start with Blanchard’s location in relation to two major cities: Oklahoma City and Norman. Norman is a thriving metropolitan area in its own right, with ample job opportunities and a diverse range of activities. Meanwhile, Oklahoma City is a bustling metropolis and one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.

Despite being a small town, Blanchard’s proximity to these larger cities is one of its major draws. You might glance at a map and think Blanchard is a bit out of the way, but many residents appreciate the balance of living in a peaceful community while still having easy access to the amenities of city life.

Good Roads

Blanchard also boasts excellent roads, particularly when it comes to getting to nearby cities like Norman and Oklahoma City. Highways 9 and 62 are the main routes between Blanchard and Norman, and they are typically free of stoplights and congestion. These roads are well-maintained and see relatively little traffic.

Traveling to Oklahoma City requires taking Highway 62 and Interstate 44, which can be busier and more congested, particularly during peak hours. From the center of Blanchard to the center of Norman, the drive takes roughly 25 to 35 minutes, depending on your location within the town. Getting to downtown Oklahoma City takes between 25 and 50 minutes, depending on traffic.

Despite the drive times, many people find the rural atmosphere of Blanchard to be worth the extra travel. If you’re seeking a quiet, country lifestyle while still having easy access to nearby cities, Blanchard may be the perfect fit. It’s worth noting that the nearby town of Moore, situated between Norman and Oklahoma City, is also a viable option to consider.

Land Availability

Another advantage of Blanchard is its abundance of available land. As a rural area, there are plenty of open spaces and large tracts of land to be found. Many new homes in Blanchard are built on half-acre to one-acre lots, and some neighborhoods even offer lots up to five or ten acres in size.

For those seeking more land, Blanchard also offers the opportunity to purchase larger plots, ranging from 100 to 500 acres. In addition, there are several small towns near Blanchard that have plenty of available land for purchase, making it a great option for those looking for a rural lifestyle while still being close to a larger metropolitan area.

It’s important to note, however, that living in Blanchard means embracing the open, rolling plains of Oklahoma. If you’re not fond of wide-open spaces and rural living, then Blanchard may not be the right fit for you and could be considered a con.

Population

Blanchard has a population of around 10,000 residents, giving it a small-town feel that many people find appealing. In contrast, neighboring Norman has a population of around 125,000. This small population size contributes to Blanchard’s rural atmosphere, with plenty of open land and a sense of community that comes from knowing many of your neighbors.

In my experience, rural areas are defined by expansive fields of crops, hay, and livestock ranches. Blanchard fits this description well, with plenty of opportunities to witness the agricultural aspects of rural living. And like many small towns, Blanchard offers a chance to experience that classic feeling of running into someone you know whenever you venture into town.

If you’re seeking a rural lifestyle with a strong sense of community, Blanchard is definitely worth considering. But beware, saying “rural” 10 times fast is no easy feat!

New Homes

Blanchard’s abundance of available land has led to a lot of new home construction in the area. Many neighborhoods in Blanchard feature new or newer homes, including Oasis Ranch, West End Estates, Fox Run, Silo Acres, and Four Lakes.

It’s worth noting that Blanchard is located in two counties, McLean and Grady. This can offer additional opportunities for finding a new home that meets your needs.

For many homebuyers, the appeal of a brand new home is strong, and Blanchard offers ample opportunities to find just that. If you’re interested in learning more about Blanchard and the real estate opportunities available there, be sure to download my relocation guide.

Restaurants

When it comes to shopping and restaurants, Blanchard offers a mixed bag. While it’s a small town, there are still a good number of options for dining and shopping, though this may depend on your personal preferences. Many of the restaurants in the area are locally owned, offering a chance to support small businesses.

When it comes to grocery shopping, there are only a few options in Blanchard. However, the nearby Tri-City area, which includes Blanchard, Newcastle, and Tuttle, has a shopping center that offers a Walmart, Walgreens, and fast-food options, as well as a gym.

It’s worth noting that some people may view the limited shopping and dining options in Blanchard as a drawback. However, others may see it as a positive aspect of living in a small town with a more relaxed pace of life.

As a side note, I had a memorable experience at the Newcastle Walmart during the 2013 Moore tornado, when I took cover there while working across the street.