Elk City, OK: Discover the Magic of the Great Plains—Where History Meets Modern Living
Tucked away in the sprawling landscapes of Western Oklahoma lies Elk City, a place where the warmth of small-town living collides beautifully with the conveniences of a modern lifestyle. Often overlooked, this treasure of the Great Plains is a canvas painted with vibrant history, thriving culture, and a community that knows no strangers. In Elk City, you don’t just live—you thrive.
With a population of approximately 12,000, Elk City is the epitome of a close-knit community, where faces are familiar, and bonds are strong. It’s a place where your neighbors become your friends, enriching your daily life with a sense of unity.
Education is a key focus in Elk City. The city’s high school graduation rate sits at a commendable 87%, higher than the national average. The city is also home to the Western Technology Center, a vocational school offering a diverse range of programs.
When it comes to safety, Elk City enjoys a lower crime rate compared to the national average, making it a safe haven in the Sooner State. The city has shown a consistent decrease in crime over the past five years, reinforcing its commitment to the security of its residents.
Compared to larger Oklahoman cities like Oklahoma City and Tulsa, Elk City offers a more relaxed pace of life without sacrificing accessibility to amenities. It’s a city where you can enjoy tranquility without feeling isolated, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Great Plains.
Housing in Elk City is notably affordable, with the median home price significantly lower than the state average. This makes Elk City an attractive option for families and individuals seeking a cost-effective, high-quality lifestyle.
Elk City, OK is a place where history comes alive, and community spirit thrives. With a robust educational system, a safe and secure living environment, and the affordability of a small town without compromising the amenities, Elk City is a standout choice in Oklahoma. It’s a place where you can reconnect with nature and relish the charm of the Great Plains—a place where you’re not just a resident, but a part of a community. Explore Elk City, OK—there’s more to this town than meets the eye.
Mayor
Nick Archer is the mayor of Elk City, Oklahoma. He has lived in Elk City and western Oklahoma throughout his life. After graduating from The University of Oklahoma, Nick and his wife Katie, along with their two children, Xander and Emilia, reside in Elk City.
FAQs
What are some popular attractions in Elk City?
Some popular attractions in Elk City are:
- National Route 66 Museum
- Old Town Museum
- Ackley Park
- Farm and Ranch Museum
- Parker Drilling Rig
What is the economy of Elk City like?
Petroleum, agriculture, wind energy, transportation, tourism, manufacturing, and healthcare all contribute to Elk City’s economy. Today, Elk City is the principal center of trade for Western Oklahoma and part of the Texas Panhandle, with a 60-mile (97 km) trade radius that serves more than 50,000 people1. Since the 2000 census, Elk City has had a nearly 3% growth in jobs. Over the next decade, the number of jobs available in Elk City is expected to skyrocket by about 42%.
What is the history of Elk City?
Elk City’s history dates back to the days immediately following the opening of the Cheyenne-Arapaho reservation in western Oklahoma Territory on April 19, 1892, when the first white settlers made their appearance. By January 1902, Elk City boasted more than 60 businesses and a population exceeding 1,000. Paving with bricks began in 1902 due to an effort from the many the city employed. Though not yet a year old, the town had become one of the largest in western Oklahoma.
By the mid-1940s, the town had two parks, two golf courses, and a swimming pool. On November 24, 1947, Shell Oil Company brought in a producing oil well that furthered Elk City’s economic development3. At the turn of the twenty-first century Elk City had a council-manager form of government.
What is the population of Elk City?
The population of Elk City was 11,693 at the 2010 census, and the population was estimated at 11,577 in 2019. According to worldpopulationreview.com, as of 2020, the population of Elk City is 11,444.
What is there to do in Elk City?
Elk City has many recreational activities and tourist destinations – both indoors and out – to satisfy any taste. Outdoor fun includes hiking, biking and horseback riding along with fishing, boating and waterskiing; while indoor fun can be had at any number of museums in the area1. Here are some of the things you can do in Elk City:
- Visit the Old Town Museum Complex where Oklahoma pioneer life is recreated.
- Visit the National Route 66 Museum which is the most popular highway in the United States.
- Enjoy an interactive look at the history of transportation at the National Transportation Museum.
- Visit the Farm and Ranch and Blacksmith Museum.
- Watch a play at Red Carpet Community Theatre.