Quick Answer:
Among Sprague’s Backhoe installations across Oklahoma in 2025, the 7×9 above ground storm shelter was chosen most often (40% of above ground installations), followed closely by the 5×7 (36%). For below ground shelters, the 6×8 slope front led at 47%. Overall, 67% of our installations were above ground and 33% were below ground. Based on hundreds of installations, these numbers reflect what our customers prioritized: size, affordability, and accessibility. All shelters meet FEMA guidelines for tornado protection.
Introduction
After installing storm shelters across Oklahoma for over 20 years, I’ve learned that one of the first questions people ask is simple: “What size do most people get?”
It’s a fair question. When you’re making a decision this important, you want to know what other Oklahoma families are choosing. Not because you’ll automatically pick the same thing, but because it helps you understand the landscape.
The data I’m sharing comes from our own installations across Oklahoma in 2025. This reflects what our customers chose, not necessarily statewide trends. But after hundreds of installations over the years, we’ve noticed clear patterns that can help you think through your options.
In 2025, I pulled the numbers to see what patterns emerged, and honestly, some of it surprised me. This article breaks down what families actually chose this year and, more importantly, why those patterns exist.
Whether you’re just starting your research or you’re down to the final decision, this data can help. Just remember that popularity doesn’t equal “right for you.” Your family size, budget, property, and accessibility needs matter more than any percentage.
The Big Picture: Above Ground vs Below Ground in 2025
Before we dig into specific sizes, let’s look at the big picture from our installations. In 2025, 67% of the storm shelters we installed were above ground and 33% were below ground.
This continues a trend I’ve been watching for the past few years. Above ground installations are growing considerably, and I think there are some solid reasons why. They’re easier to access (no stairs or ladder), they can go almost anywhere on your property, and installation doesn’t depend on soil conditions or water tables. (You can explore our above ground storm shelter options to see what’s available.)
For families with mobility concerns, above ground shelters eliminate the biggest barrier to getting underground during a tornado. For everyone else, they’re simply more convenient. You’re not climbing down stairs in the dark with kids and pets while sirens are blaring.
That said, a third of our customers still chose below ground shelters in 2025. Some people prefer the traditional feel of an underground shelter. Others have specific property situations where below ground makes more sense. And for families within our 30-mile service radius from Bridge Creek, the below ground options remain popular and reliable. (View our below ground storm shelter options if you’re considering this route.)
Above Ground Shelters: What Our Customers Chose
7×9: The Clear Leader at 40%
The 7×9 above ground shelter was our most installed model in 2025, just like it was in 2024. (If you want to know more, read why the 7×9 was our top pick in 2024.) It holds 14 to 16 people comfortably, which is the sweet spot for most Oklahoma families.
Why families choose the 7×9:
- Room for your family plus neighbors or extended family
- Space for pets and emergency supplies
- Maximum above ground space available
- Worth the investment for families who need the room
Here’s what I hear from families who choose the 7×9: “We want enough room for our family plus maybe a neighbor or two, and we’re willing to invest in the largest option.” This is our biggest above ground shelter, and families who choose it are prioritizing space and comfort during severe weather.
The 7×9 also handles the reality of storm shelter use well. You’re not just fitting people in there. You’re bringing pets, grabbing essentials, maybe storing emergency supplies. That extra space matters when tornado sirens go off at 2 a.m.
5×7: Strong Second at 36%
The 5×7 came in close behind at 36% of above ground installations. This is our most affordable above ground option, holding up to 9 people.
Why families choose the 5×7:
- Most affordable above ground option
- Perfect for smaller families and couples
- Meets the same FEMA guidelines as larger models
- Protection without paying for extra space
For smaller families or couples, the 5×7 delivers everything you need without paying for extra square footage. It meets the same FEMA guidelines as our larger models. It’s built to the same standards. It just holds fewer people.
I see a lot of younger families, retirees, and folks on tighter budgets choose the 5×7. They want protection, and they want it to be affordable. This model delivers both.
6×8: The Middle Ground at 24%
Here’s where it gets interesting. The 6×8 above ground shelter came in last at 24% of installations. It holds 12 people, sitting right between the 5×7 and 7×9.
In my experience, I’ve noticed a pattern: people tend to go for either the cheapest option or the biggest option. The middle gets squeezed.
If you’re prioritizing budget, you choose the 5×7. If you’re prioritizing space, you go for the 7×9. The 6×8 is a great shelter, but it often gets passed over because it doesn’t hit either of those extremes.
That said, the 6×8 has one feature that draws certain buyers: the farmhouse design option. For families who want their shelter to blend with their property’s aesthetic, this is often the deciding factor.
If you have a family of 6 to 8 and the 5×7 feels too tight but the 7×9 feels like overkill, this is your size. Don’t let popularity percentages override what actually fits your needs.
Below Ground Shelters: The Underground Story
6×8 Slope Front: The Traditional Favorite at 47%
Nearly half of below ground installations in 2025 were the 6×8 slope front model. This is the classic underground storm shelter that’s been protecting Oklahoma families for decades.
Why families choose the 6×8 slope front:
- Most affordable below ground option
- Proven design with decades of tornado protection
- Traditional underground shelter feel
- Holds 10 to 12 people comfortably
The slope front features steep stairs leading down into the shelter. As our most affordable underground option, it’s the choice for families who want below ground protection at the lowest price point.
People who choose this model often tell me they like the traditional underground shelter feel and the proven design that’s protected families through countless Oklahoma tornadoes.
7×10 Jumbo: Maximum Underground Space at 36%
The 7×10 jumbo slope front captured 36% of below ground installations. This is our largest below ground option, holding 14 to 16 people.
Why families choose the 7×10 jumbo:
- Maximum underground space (14 to 16 people)
- Room for larger families or multiple households
- Extra storage for emergency supplies
- Better option for anyone who feels claustrophobic in smaller underground spaces
- Worth the investment for families who need the space
Families who choose the jumbo want maximum space underground. They’re willing to invest more for the extra room, and they often have larger families or plan to accommodate neighbors during severe weather. I’ve also worked with buyers who feel claustrophobic in smaller underground shelters but are committed to going below ground instead of above ground. For them, the jumbo offers more breathing room.
The jumbo also works well for families who want to store emergency supplies, camping gear, or other items in the shelter between storms. That extra space serves double duty.
Easy Access: Just 16%, and Here’s Why I Think That Number Is So Low
The Easy Access below ground shelter came in at only 16% of underground installations. This surprised me at first, but after thinking about it, I have a theory.
The Easy Access model has stairs instead of a slope, making it easier to navigate than the steep stairs in traditional slope front shelters. Because the staircase takes up interior space, the Easy Access holds 8 to 10 people compared to 10 to 12 in the regular slope front model. It also costs more than the slope front.
I’ve noticed that same “cheapest or biggest” pattern here. If you’re committed to going underground and you’re budget-conscious, you choose the 6×8 slope front. If you want maximum underground space, you choose the 7×10 jumbo. The Easy Access sits in the middle on both price and capacity.
But here’s my other theory, and I think it’s the bigger factor: I believe many people who would have chosen Easy Access in the past are now choosing above ground shelters instead.
Think about it. If your main concern with underground shelters is navigating steep stairs, why not eliminate stairs entirely? Above ground shelters have grown in popularity over the past few years, and more people are aware they’re an option. The price difference between Easy Access and an above ground shelter isn’t huge, but the accessibility difference is significant.
That said, Easy Access does have some specific advantages. One popular reason families choose this model is through tribal grant programs like the Chickasaw Nation grant. The grant provides $5,000, and until January 1, 2026, that amount fully covered the Easy Access model, allowing families to maximize their grant benefit. Learn more about the Chickasaw Nation storm shelter grant. Financing options are also available for families who need payment flexibility.
If you need the shelter in a certain location that works better underground, but you also need easier access than steep stairs provide, this model makes perfect sense. Maybe you have a parent with mobility concerns who’s determined to have an underground shelter. Easy Access solves that problem.
Don’t let these percentages talk you out of what actually works for your family’s needs.
What These Numbers Mean for Your Decision
After years of installing storm shelters across Oklahoma, here’s my honest take: this data is helpful, but your specific situation matters more than any trend.
The “cheapest or biggest” pattern I keep mentioning? It’s real, and it makes sense. Most people are either trying to get protection as affordably as possible, or they want maximum space and are willing to invest more. There’s nothing wrong with either approach.
But if you fall somewhere in the middle, don’t second-guess yourself. The 6×8 above ground or Easy Access below ground might be exactly what you need, even if fewer people chose them this year.
Here are the questions that matter more than popularity:
- Family Size: How many people need to fit comfortably? Don’t forget about pets, elderly parents who might need to shelter with you, or neighbors who might not have their own shelter.
- Budget: What can you realistically afford? Remember, the “cheapest” option that gets you protection is better than delaying because you’re trying to afford the “biggest.”
- Property Considerations: Do you have space for above ground? Is your soil suitable for below ground? Is there a specific location that makes more sense for one type over the other?
- Accessibility Needs: Will everyone in your household be able to get into the shelter quickly and safely during a tornado warning? This matters more than anything else.
- Long-Term Plans: Are you staying in this house long-term, or might you move? Are you planning to expand your family? These factors can influence your size choice.
I’m not sharing these numbers to push you toward the most popular options. I’m sharing them so you understand the landscape and can make an informed decision. Sometimes going against the trend is exactly the right call.
How Sprague’s Backhoe Helps Oklahoma Families Choose
At Sprague’s Backhoe, we’ve been a locally owned and operated, insured contractor installing storm shelters across Oklahoma since 2013, with over 20 years of experience in this industry. Every installation is handled personally by our owner-operator, so when you call, you’re talking directly to the person who’ll be installing your shelter. We don’t use subcontractors or multiple crews.
We’re never pushy about sizing. I’ve seen too many families stress over this decision, and honestly, most of the time any of our standard sizes would work fine for them. We help you think through your specific needs, answer your questions honestly, and then you decide what makes sense for your family.
We install above ground storm shelters throughout Oklahoma (delivery charges apply for installations over 60 miles from Bridge Creek). For below ground installations, we serve families within a 30-mile radius of our Bridge Creek office, which covers communities like Oklahoma City, Norman, Moore, Mustang, Chickasha, Tuttle, Newcastle, and El Reno.
All of our storm shelters meet FEMA 320 and 361 guidelines for residential and commercial installations. They’re engineered to withstand EF5 tornado conditions. Whether you choose the most popular size or go your own direction, you’re getting protection that works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the 7×9 the most popular above ground size?
The 7×9 hits the sweet spot for most Oklahoma families. It holds 14 to 16 people, which is enough for your family plus neighbors or extended family, without paying for more space than you’ll realistically use. For families who can stretch the budget beyond the 5×7, the 7×9 offers noticeably more room without being excessive.
Is the 5×7 big enough for a family of four?
Yes, the 5×7 holds up to 9 people, so a family of four fits comfortably. You’ll have room for everyone plus pets and a few essential items. If you have very young children, this size will work well for years. Just consider whether you might need to accommodate elderly parents, neighbors, or whether your family might grow. If you’re on the fence, think about your situation five years from now, not just today.
Why do more people choose above ground now?
Above ground shelters have grown in popularity for several reasons. They eliminate stairs or ladders, which matters for families with young children, elderly members, or anyone with mobility concerns. They can be installed almost anywhere on your property without worrying about soil conditions or water tables. And frankly, they’re more convenient. When tornado sirens go off, you walk right in instead of climbing down underground. The accessibility factor alone has convinced many Oklahoma families to go above ground.
What’s the difference between slope front and Easy Access below ground shelters?
Both are below ground shelters, but they have different entry designs. The slope front has steep stairs leading down into the shelter and holds 10 to 12 people. The Easy Access also has stairs, but they’re easier to navigate than the steep slope front stairs. However, because the Easy Access staircase takes up more interior space, it holds 8 to 10 people. The Easy Access model costs more while offering less capacity, but the improved accessibility is worth it for many families. If easy access is your top priority and you’re committed to underground installation, Easy Access makes sense. But many people who prioritize easy access are now choosing above ground shelters instead, which eliminates stairs entirely.
Should I choose based on what’s most popular?
Not necessarily. These numbers show you what other Oklahoma families chose, which is helpful context. But the most popular option isn’t automatically the right option for your family. Your specific needs, budget, property situation, and accessibility requirements matter more than any trend. Use this data to understand your options, but make your decision based on what works for you.
Do storm shelter sizes meet FEMA guidelines?
All of Sprague’s Backhoe storm shelters meet FEMA 320 and 361 guidelines for wind resistance and impact protection. FEMA doesn’t “certify” individual storm shelters, but our shelters are engineered to meet their specifications for residential and commercial installations as outlined in FEMA safe room guidelines. This applies to all sizes, both above ground and below ground. You’re getting the same level of protection whether you choose the smallest or largest option.
How do I know which size is right for my family?
Start with the number of people who need to fit comfortably. Add pets, consider whether you might need to accommodate neighbors or extended family, and think about storing emergency supplies. Then look at your budget honestly. The most important thing is getting protection. If the smallest size gets you there affordably and meets your needs, that’s your answer. If you can invest more and want extra space, go bigger. We’re happy to talk through your specific situation and help you think it through without any pressure.
Why are the middle-sized options (6×8 above ground and Easy Access) less popular?
In my experience, I’ve noticed a “cheapest or biggest” pattern. People tend to prioritize either affordability or maximum space, and middle-ground options get squeezed. If you’re focused on budget, you choose the 5×7 above ground or 6×8 slope below ground. If you want the most space, you choose the 7×9 above ground or 7×10 jumbo below ground. The 6×8 above ground and Easy Access below ground are excellent shelters, but they don’t hit either extreme. That said, they’re perfect for families who truly need that middle ground. Don’t let popularity percentages override what actually fits your situation.
Key Takeaways
Among our 2025 installations, the 7×9 above ground storm shelter was the most popular size, capturing 40% of above ground installations across Oklahoma. The 5×7 came in close behind at 36%, proving that affordability matters to many Oklahoma families.
For below ground shelters, the traditional 6×8 slope front led at 47%, followed by the 7×10 jumbo at 36%. The Easy Access model came in at 16%, likely because many people who prioritize easy access are now choosing above ground shelters instead.
Overall, 67% of our installations in 2025 were above ground and 33% were below ground. This continues the growing trend toward above ground shelters, driven largely by accessibility and convenience.
But here’s what matters most: popularity data helps you understand your options, but your specific needs should drive your decision. The “cheapest or biggest” pattern is real, but middle-ground options like the 6×8 above ground or Easy Access below ground might be exactly what your family needs.
At Sprague’s Backhoe, we install all sizes across Oklahoma. Every shelter meets FEMA guidelines. Every installation is handled personally by experienced professionals. And every family gets honest answers without sales pressure.
Ready to Choose the Right Storm Shelter for Your Family?
Knowing what others choose is helpful, but finding the right fit for your family is what matters. Whether you’re leaning toward the most popular 7×9, want the affordability of a 5×7, or need something completely different, we’re here to help you think it through.
Call us at (405) 600-4905 to discuss your specific situation and get a free quote. No pressure, no sales pitch—just honest answers about which storm shelter size makes sense for your family and property.
