Oklahoma

The state of Oklahoma has a rich and complex history, a diverse cultural landscape, and a mix of urban and rural areas that contribute to its unique identity.

The state’s diverse cultural heritage is reflected in events, festivals, and museums celebrating its Native American, African American, and Western heritage.

Oklahoma features a variety of natural attractions, including the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, and the Ouachita National Forest.

It’s a state that has a good real estate streak, and it’s also quite nice and friendly to live in. For instance, the median price of a home in Oklahoma is approximately $174,600. This is lower than the average cost of a home in a state like California which is roughly $799,000.

State highlights

Oklahoma is often referred to as the ’Sooner State.’ The nickname comes from the settlers who claimed land in the region before it was officially opened for settlement, ’getting there sooner’ than allowed.

Oklahoma has a rich Native American history, known as Indian Territory. It was a destination for forced removals of Native American tribes in the 19th century, notably the Trail of Tears experienced by the Cherokee Nation.

The Land Run of 1889 was a significant event in Oklahoma’s history. On April 22, 1889, thousands of settlers raced to claim land in the Unassigned Lands, leading to the rapid formation of towns and settlements.

Oklahoma has the second-largest Native American population among U.S. states, with more than 25 Native American languages spoken.

In 1921, one of the most devastating incidents of racial violence in U.S. history occurred in Tulsa. The Greenwood District, a prosperous Black community, was destroyed in a violent attack by a white mob.

Will Rogers, a famous cowboy, actor, and humorist, was born in Oklahoma Territory in 1879. He became a beloved figure for his wit and insight into American life.

The musical ’Oklahoma!’ created by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, set in the Oklahoma Territory, is famous worldwide and has contributed to the state’s cultural identity.

Legendary folk musician and songwriter Woody Guthrie was born in Okemah, Oklahoma. His song ’This Land Is Your Land’ has become an iconic American folk anthem.

Author S.E. Hinton, known for her novel ’The Outsiders,’ was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The book was later adapted into a popular movie.

Martial artist, actor, and cultural icon Chuck Norris was born in Ryan, Oklahoma. He became known for his roles in action films and the TV show ’Walker, Texas Ranger.’

Geographic location

Oklahoma is bordered by six states: Texas to the south, Arkansas to the east, Missouri to the northeast, Kansas to the north, Colorado to the northwest, and New Mexico to the west.

The state’s diverse geography includes plains, forests, mountains, and rolling hills. The Ozark Plateau, Ouachita Mountains, and Great Plains are prominent geographical features.

Climate

Oklahoma has a varied climate that encompasses both subtropical and continental influences. The climate can vary widely across different regions of the state.

Oklahoma experiences hot and humid summers. Average high temperatures in July, the hottest month, range from the mid-80s to mid-90s °F.

Winters are relatively mild, with average high temperatures in January, the coldest month, ranging from the mid-40s to mid-50s °F.

Spring and early summer tend to be wetter, while late summer and early fall can be relatively dry.

The state is known for its rapid and sometimes extreme temperature changes, with swings of 30 °F or more in a single day.

Demography

The capital of Oklahoma is Oklahoma City, which is also the largest city in the state, which is also the economic and cultural hub of the state. Other major cities include Tulsa, Edmond, Norman, Moore, and Yukon, according to U.S. Census Bureau in 2022, it had an estimated population of 4,019,800 people.

Oklahoma has a diverse population with various ethnic and racial backgrounds. The largest ethnic group is non-Hispanic White, followed by Hispanic or Latino, African American, Native American, and Asian.

Oklahoma is home to several Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek, and Seminole, among others. These tribes have significant cultural and historical importance in the state.

The city of Tahlequah is the capital of the Cherokee Nation and has a strong Native American presence.

Oklahoma has younger age than the rest of the U.S., at around 37.1 years old compared to the national average of 38.5.

Cost of Living

The cost of living is reported to be low at Oklahoma State. Oklahoma City has a median home price of about $174,600. Which is lower than the national average of $339,048. Median income levels can vary based on factors such as education, occupation, and location within the state. The average median income of the state is approximately $46,235.

The average salary in the state of Oklahoma is approximately $53,689 per year.

Transportation

Transportation in Oklahoma consists of a network of highways, roads, public transportation options, and airports that serve the state’s residents and visitors. Here are the key aspects of transportation in Oklahoma:

Oklahoma has an extensive system of highways and roads that connect cities, towns, and rural areas, with Interstate 40, Interstate 35, and Interstate 44.

U.S. Highways, such as U.S. Route 69 and U.S. Route 75, also play a significant role in connecting various parts of the state.

Public transportation options in Oklahoma vary by region. The largest cities, Oklahoma City and Tulsa have bus systems that provide local transit services. In Oklahoma City, the Metropolitan Area Rapid Transit Authority (EMBARK) operates the city’s bus services.

Tulsa Transit provides bus services in the Tulsa metropolitan area.

The state of Oklahoma is served by several airports, both commercial and general aviation facilities.

The largest and busiest airport in the state is Will Rogers World Airport (OKC) in Oklahoma City, followed by Tulsa International Airport (TUL) in Tulsa.

While not as prominent as in the past, railroads still play a role in transporting goods across the state.

Freight railroads transport various commodities, including agricultural products and energy resources.

Given Oklahoma’s central location in the United States, it serves as a hub for trucking and freight transportation, with many highways connecting the state to various regions.

Schools

Oklahoma is home to several notable schools including elementary, middle, and high schools, and universities. The following list is some of the best universities in the state.

University of Oklahoma (Norman): A prominent public research university known for its strong academic programs and research contributions.

Oklahoma State University (Stillwater): Another major public research university with a focus on agriculture, engineering, and various other disciplines.

University of Tulsa: A private research university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

Oral Roberts University (Tulsa): A private Christian university known for its emphasis on faith-based education.

Oklahoma City University: A private university in Oklahoma City with programs in law, business, arts, and more.

Tulsa Community College: A prominent community college offering two-year degree programs and workforce training.

Rose State College (Midwest City): Another community college providing affordable education and training opportunities.

What is the state like?

Oklahoma has a rich cultural heritage influenced by Native American, African American, European, and other ethnic traditions.

The state celebrates its Native American heritage through festivals, events, and museums that showcase the history and contributions of various tribes.

Oklahomans are often known for their warm and friendly hospitality. The sense of community is strong, and people tend to be welcoming and approachable.

While Oklahoma has major urban centers like Oklahoma City and Tulsa, much of the state is characterized by rural and small-town communities. This mix creates a unique balance between city life and a more relaxed, rural atmosphere.