Low cost of living and a great culture simplify life in Broken Arrow

Returning to a favorite region is often a deciding factor in a move, and for Chris Masini, a project engineer with Arrowhead Winch, memories of Oklahoma guided him on a job search in 2024. One of Masini’s first jobs out of college in the mid-1990s was for a company in Stillwater. The positive experience of living and working in the state led to searching Oklahoma jobs, and when an opportunity at Arrowhead Winch became a job offer, it was time to make a decision on where to live near work. 

Cost of living drives Broken Arrow decision

As Masini and his wife, Jennifer, started reviewing the options for living near Arrowhead Winch’s headquarters in Broken Arrow, they researched multiple options, including locating in nearby Tulsa. After researching incentive programs, real estate options, and more, the couple felt Broken Arrow featured the perfect blend of quality-of-life points coupled with a low cost of living. Crunching the numbers with a cost-of-living calculator validated the feelings and demonstrated the long-term value of lower costs exceeded any other offerings.

Broken Arrow feels like home

The Masinis chose Broken Arrow remotely after researching online and analyzing several options. 

“Looking at Broken Arrow, it had the look, feel, and sound of Stillwater,” Masini explained, “so I accepted the job in August 2024 and moved here from San Diego.”

Masini joined Arrowhead Winch’s new product development group as a mechanical engineer specializing in hydraulics. At work, he designs the hydraulic motors for the hydraulic systems on the company’s winches. Outside of the initial work opportunities found – Masini noted many industries in Oklahoma require mechanical engineers – considering the culture of a new community was also an important decision-making factor when planning the move.

“Whether I’m talking at work, in downtown Broken Arrow, or in the neighborhood, people are genuinely friendly,” Masinia shared. “They are genuinely nice and very welcoming, and it makes this a really fun, friendly place to live.” 

Enjoying a day out in Broken Arrow

“We absolutely love everything about Broken Arrow,” Masini adds. “We like to spend a lot of time outdoors. My wife is a runner, and she connected with a running group. I like to walk every day with our dog, Oliver, and I’ve found a lot of great places to get out and walk, whether it’s just around our neighborhood or in the different paths around the city.” 

The two-mile loop trail at Nienhuis Park is a repeat destination, and for local retail, the Bass Pro Shops in Broken Arrow is a must. 

When it’s time for more serious recreation, the Masinis enjoy the dining options across the city. Andolini’s Pizzeria on Main Street has become an all-time favorite pizza destination while the Los Cabos near Bass Pro, and Laurannae Baking Co., are also culinary points of interest. Both the nearby Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and the Gathering Place Park in Tulsa have been fun day trip options. 

With everything to do in Broken Arrow and nearby Tulsa, the Masinis – who enjoy sporting events and concerts – don’t anticipate being bored anytime soon! 

Interested in learning about opportunities to experience the great culture or low cost of living in Broken Arrow? Contact the Broken Arrow Economic Development Corporation today to learn more or visit BeinBA.com, and if you are looking for a new career, review the latest job openings here.