6 Charming Oklahoma Communities To Retire Around Oklahoma City
From the rolling hills in the east to the high plains of the Panhandle, Oklahoma is a showcase of beauty. Sharing a border with Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, Texas, and New Mexico, the state is settled in a bountiful bed of beauty, nature, and a rich history. Oklahoma is home to many museums, parks, and historical landmarks that provide a vibrant culture to the region. With a low cost of living in many cities, the state is an ideal retirement spot for retirees looking for a more tranquil pace in life. The towns of Ardmore, Guthrie, Eufaula, Piedmont, Owasso, and Stillwater, each a charming community to retire in that's near Oklahoma City, are stepping stones to all the great amenities that Oklahoma has to offer.
Ardmore
Located in southcentral Oklahoma, Ardmore is 97 miles from Oklahoma City and is ideal for retirees. The city has a population of 24,725 residents with an average rent of $959, which is lower than the state average. Named after Ardmore, Pennsylvania, by a railroad employee who worked for the Pennsylvania Railroad, the city is settled next to the Arbuckle Mountains in the north and the Red River to the south. Ardmore offers a variety of activities for art enthusiasts, nature lovers, and history buffs. The Charles B. Goddard Center for Visual and Performing Arts includes Western and contemporary art exhibits. Ardmore Regional Park offers walking trails and a city lake. The Eliza Cruce Hall Doll Museum, located in the Ardmore Public Library, features 300 rare and antique dolls from various historical periods in the US and Europe. If you want to retire in a small town within driving distance of a big city, then Ardmore may be the right place for you.
Guthrie
Guthrie is a retiree's paradise, combining small-town charm with big-city amenities. With a population of 11,398 and median rent prices far below the Oklahoma average, Guthrie is affordable for the conscientious budgeter. Located in Logan County, Guthrie is 32 miles north of Oklahoma City. The town was named in honor of John Guthrie, a jurist from Kansas, and held the honor of the state capital from 1907 to 1910. The Oklahoma Territorial Museum and Carnegie Library are two historical landmarks. The museum includes artifacts, photos, and paintings that tell the stories of the area's people. The Carnegie Library, built in 1902, was joined to the museum after the 1970s. Outdoor seekers can enjoy the beauty of Highland Park, a 43-acre park that offers fishing on Hudson Lake, walking trails, tennis and pickleball courts, and a 19-hole Disc Golf Course. Guthrie also has excellent health care options with Mercy Hospital Logan County, a 25-bed critical access hospital specializing in cardiology, podiatry, spine care, and pain management. The hospital also offers the Senior Life Solutions program, which is ideal for individuals aged 65 and up who are experiencing depression or anxiety related to life changes. Retirees looking for affordability, excellent amenities, and great healthcare should look no further than Guthrie.
Eufaula
Eufaula is a small town with a big history. It is in McIntosh County and has a population of fewer than 3,000 residents with a median household income of around $38,500. Eufaula’s population grew with the introduction of the railroad in 1872 and peaked in 1980 at 3,159 residents. However, the 2000s noted a decline in the population. The town’s history includes the C. L. Cooper Building, named after Dr. C. L. Cooper, the first and only African American physician who served the people of Eufaula from 1908 to the 1930s. The two-story commercial building is brick with arched window openings. Another architectural attraction is the McIntosh County Courthouse, built in 1926. The three-story brick and concrete structure is still in operation today. In addition to historical buildings, Eufaula offers Lake Eufaula, Oklahoma’s largest lake, with 600 miles of shoreline. The lake and its associated Lake Eufaula State Park are water sports havens, offering boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Retirees can enjoy the tranquil beauty and history that Eufaula offers.
Piedmont
Located north of Oklahoma City, the Piedmont town site was initiated in 1903 by Dr. E. H. Long. In February 1904, a large auction of residential and business lots attracted many residents. The introduction of the railroad further increased the population as nearby settlers moved to the area to be closer to the railroad. Agriculture has been the area's leading industry and provides a stable economy for residents. Piedmont is a safe small town with 8,804 residents located near the various amenities of Oklahoma City. The Piedmont Community Park is one attraction that provides ADA accessibility, picnic areas, grills, and a basketball court. The Piedmont Library, which opened in September 2003, offers residents a collection of more than 16,000 items and various activities, such as a chess club for all ages, an adult book club, and pottery and crochet classes. There's also the beautiful and tranquil Martin Park Nature Center nearby. If you want to retire in a safe community about 30 minutes away from the big city, Piedmont may be the right place.
Owasso
Owasso began as a settlement in 1881 in Cherokee Nation Indian Territory. The introduction of the railroad and the proximity to Tulsa increased the town’s population. Today, 41,162 residents call the city their home. Owasso offers a rich history and recreation. The Owasso Historical Museum was built in 1928 by John Komma. The brick building was originally a grocery store and market. Ownership changed hands a few times, and the Owasso Historical Society is the present owner. The museum provides a glimpse into the past with a working player piano and Edison Fireside Model A Phonograph. Other artifacts include a 1920s chicken incubator and a wooden ice box. Seniors can participate in the many programs the City of Owasso adult senior program offers, including arts and crafts, cooking classes, a Bridge club, and guest speakers. Owasso has several parks for outdoor recreation, including Centennial Park, which boasts a three-mile trail, fishing ponds, and an 18-hole disc golf course. Visitors also enjoy the nearby Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch and Oologah Lake. Rayola, Friendship, and Elm Creek Parks feature a butterfly garden, memorial trees, walking trails, picnic shelters, tennis courts, and a large fishing pond. Owasso will surely delight if you are retiring and looking for a new place to call home.
Stillwater
Located in north central Oklahoma and home to Oklahoma State University, Stillwater is a retirees’ bliss. The city has a low population of 48,394 and a low cost of living, with rental prices below the state average. A senior activity center, which features activities for patrons 50 years and older, includes parties, card playing, low-impact exercise classes, line dancing, and arts and crafts. Stillwater is also home to the Stillwater History Museum, which opened in 1974. The building was initially named after Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Sheerar, who donated $25,000 to the museum. The name was later changed in 2017 to the Stillwater History Museum at the Sheerar to reflect its mission more adequately. The city encompasses several parks, including Boomer Lake Park, which offers various outdoor activities, including trails, boating, fishing, disc golf, and biking. Anyone looking to retire in an affordable town with several amenities should check out Stillwater.
Conclusion
Retirement is a well-earned adventure that should not break the bank. Exploring the small towns of Ardmore, Guthrie, Eufaula, Piedmont, Owasso, and Stillwater is a great start on the journey. From the picturesque scenery to the museums and abundant parks, these small towns offer affordability and quick access to large cities. Do not hesitate to find out all the great amenities that Oklahoma has to offer. Wherever the road to retirement leads, be sure to navigate toward these six charming Oklahoma communities that are close to Oklahoma City. They're easy on the wallet and great to explore.
