6 Senior-Friendly Towns in Oklahoma

Often overshadowed by its northern neighbor, Texas, the Sooner State, Oklahoma, is unfairly judged by what it doesn't have instead of what it does. What it does have are plenty of quaint small towns nestled in rolling plains of green, tranquility, and the enabling of a comfortable life. Enticing all but especially attractive to a select few, these serene destinations offer tight-knit communities and a homely environment that seniors adore. For a safe environment to spend your retirement with plenty of amenities available within walking distance, these are the most senior-friendly towns in Oklahoma.

Guthrie

With a population of just under 11,000, where 20% of the locals are over the age of 65, Guthrie is a social hub for seniors. To this end, retirees feel at home, and there is always someone to spend time with in this not-so-sleepy community. Most residents adore the town’s living history, such as places like the legendary Stone Lion Inn and Beacon Drive-In Theater, both showcasing a unique side to the past. For a more unique experience, Guthrie even has the Oklahoma Frontier Drug Store Museum, which showcases hundreds of medical artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries. Along with the attractions, amenities such as the Mercy Hospital Logan County provide round-the-clock healthcare to locals.

Sulphur

Sulphur, the county seat of Murray County, is an eclectic mix of amenities, nature, and affordability, perfect for retirees. The median home value is set around $150,000, $50,000 less than the state average. This allows residents to buy their dream homes without breaking the bank. That said, the small town of Sulphur is much more than numbers and dollar signs.

The area's prime attraction must be the nearby Turner Falls Park, a place popular amongst locals and visitors. Home to a staggering 77-foot-high waterfall, gentle rivers, and lush forests, it beckons youthful seniors who want to stay active. Another option closer to town is the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, which is ideal for boating, camping, and hiking amidst Oklahoma’s wilderness. For a more reflective and historical approach, the Chickasaw Cultural Center provides historical detail and insider information regarding not only legends surrounding the area but also life, as seen through the eyes of the once-great Chickasaw people.

Claremore

Claremore is a lovely Oklahoma town known for its cool atmosphere and deep-rooted culture. Having been the home of the legendary actor Will Rogers, also known as "Oklahoma's Favorite Son," Claremore's share of interesting and relaxed spots begins to multiply the longer one looks. To celebrate the great man, the Will Rogers Memorial Museum is here—a collection of the late actor's belongings, memorabilia, accounts of his history, and much more. Another way to learn about local history is at the Stratton Taylor Library, a lovely building part of the Rogers State University in town.

Apart from cultural charm, Claremore has a fair share of natural opportunities, palpable at Claremore Lake. This tranquil lake is ideal for a relaxing evening of walking, fishing, and socializing, perfect for local seniors. Moreover, as nearly 20% of Claremore’s 20,000 residents are above the age of 65, it is always full of like-minded people to spend time with. After the fun, heading back home is also a blast, as the town has an affordable median gross rent of about $1,300.

Poteau

Poteau is often overlooked as an average small town, but its laid-back atmosphere has many benefits for seniors. The town of 8,800 is one of the most affordable, with a gross median rent of less than $1,000 and a median home value of $170,000, both below the respective state average. Add on the unforgettable scenery; it is a lovely destination where you can spend your golden years.

Known in the area for its beauty, Cavanal Hill made a name for itself for supposedly being the highest hill in the world at 1,999 feet tall (actually 2,385 feet above sea level). Whether its boast is true or not, the view given generously by its peak will never lie, and its promise of overseeing the town, meadows, forests, and lakes is always kept. But Poteau has much more than just its grand hill if the LeFlore County Museum has anything to say about it. With 25+ rooms full of antiquities, revolving exhibits, and an in-depth tour of the premises, the museum also shares its land with the renowned Hotel Lowrey, ensuring that all visitors always wish to stay.

Ada

Ada, the county seat of Pontotoc County, is another senior-friendly town in Oklahoma. Retirees here have a range of options catering to all kinds of interests. The local favorite spot for outdoor lovers is Wintersmith Park, which is more than just a regular park. It's more of a swimming hole meets a resort-style lodge and time for relaxation. Guests can come and go as they please to retire to the glimmering lake, hike the trail, and after a long day of exercise, retire to the large Wintersmith Lodge and prepare for the next day of fun. But if nature isn't enough, the McSwain Theatre is a classic relic from the 1920s that still has live performances for something artistic and more human.

Those who decide to settle down in Ada will be delighted by the array of urban amenities abound. For example, healthcare is covered by the Mercy Hospital Ada, while the Ada Senior Center provides workshops, programs, and community health services. Moreover, it is great for those on a budget, with a median home value of $171,000.

Lone Wolf

Perhaps the smallest town on the list, with less than 1,000 residents, Lone Wolf—besides having a unique name—has an inexpensive median home value of $85,000, less than half the state average. Add on the acres of land for sale, and it is an ideal retreat for seniors looking to escape the urban hustle and bustle.

As for the entertainment, Quartz Mountain State Park looms over the region like a titan. This is Lone Wolf's strongest asset, with many camping sites, a stone amphitheater, a center lodge, and plenty of fairytale-like plains to get lost in. And for how niche Lone Wolf may be, it has the perfect little specialty museum to pair nicely with. Lone Wolf has the only G.I. Joe Repair Shop and Museum in the world, and while one need not be a fan to enjoy the now rare and antique pieces, the site stands as a rarity among rarities on precious 20th-century Americana.

Why These Towns?

Whether from the niche but fine interest to the lovely view of a place that begs for a return to nature, all of these towns are tied together by the red thread of comfortability. They are brothers in the unique and all too often forgotten. While that normally is not enough to make them great, they achieve that status by being excellent places of calm so that any senior looking for a cozy place to live the rest of their lives may find them here.