July 24, 2023

10 Reasons Why Southeast Oklahoma is the Perfect Place to Call Home

Imagine waking up to the sound of singing birds, the smell of fresh air, the sight of sparkling lakes and the feeling of peace and happiness. This is not a fantasy, this is Southeast Oklahoma, and it offers more than just scenic beauty and splendid landscapes.

This part of the state is a hidden gem that boasts an affordable lifestyle, beautiful outdoors, historical sites, great education, healthcare facilities, and more. If you are considering an investment in a second home, here are 10 reasons why Southeast Oklahoma should be on the top of your list.

1. Offers a Simple Lifestyle

Southeast Oklahoma makes life simple by letting you escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the peaceful and friendly atmosphere of the countryside. You can find everything you need for a comfortable stay without sacrificing your budget or the quality of your life.

Additionally, it is a place where you can slow down, breathe easy and appreciate the simple pleasures of life, like sitting by the sparkling lakes, taking a hike on the mountains, etc. You can also enjoy the benefits of small-town living, such as less traffic and reduced pollution, contributing to a stress-free and fresh atmosphere.

Furthermore, there are fewer distractions and pressures of urban life, several relaxing retreats and weekend getaway spots, and a lot of natural beauty around.

2. Lower Cost of Living and Affordable Housing

The average annual cost of living in Oklahoma is $3,8650, which is significantly lower than the cost of living in other states in the US. Additionally, the combined amount of rent, utilities, food, gas, and other personal items is affordable too, even with a modest income.

With reasonable and varied housing options, you can buy a luxurious cabin on the bank of the river or live in a comfortable apartment somewhere in the small town.

3. Low Crime Rate and Safe Communities

According to statistics, the rate of violent crimes in Southeast Oklahoma is 4.3 per 1,000, which is lower than the national rate of 5.0 per 1,000. This means the place offers a family friendly environment and serves as a great choice for individual hustlers and senior citizens as well.

With that said, the decision to live here means extra protection for yourself and your belongings. And you’d be able to lead your life without constantly looking over the shoulder.

4. Presents a Peaceful and Quiet Living Environment

Another great characteristic that makes Southeast Oklahoma the dream home is the peaceful and quiet environment it offers. This area is known for its natural beauty and scenic landscapes, which provide a serene and relaxing atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

You can also find many hidden oases in Southeast Oklahoma to enjoy the tranquility and solitude of nature. For example, you can book a stay at the Blue Doors at Tenkiller near Gore, which offers wooded tranquility facilitated by themed cabins.

5. Beautiful Outdoors and Local Attractions

If you are one of the nature lovers, then Southeast Oklahoma surely deserves to be your second home. This region offers several natural and cultural places to explore. The vast aesthetic outdoors and local activities will ensure you never run out of fun things to do.

A few of the popular local attractions you can visit include Choctaw Culture Center in Durant, Talimena National Scenic Byway, Beavers Bend State Park, McGee Bend State Park, Latimer County Museum, and more.

6. Provides Access to Great Educational Opportunities

Southeast Oklahoma has several institutions and programs that offer quality education for students of different levels and interests. You can find many options to pursue your academic and professional goals here.

For example, the Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant is a public university that offers over 45 degree plans and options, ranging from aviation to music education. With several top departments here, you will never be out of opportunities to advance your education and gain more knowledge.

7. Features Thriving Job and Business Market

Another reason to consider Southeast Oklahoma for your next home is the availability of plenty of employment opportunities. For example, you can work at the AllianceHealth Durant Hospital, as stats show that there were about 222,000 jobs in the healthcare sector of Oklahoma in 2020.

Additionally, Fenton Nissan of McAlester and Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma offer some great job opportunities as well. Besides this, you can start a business too, as several sectors, especially manufacturing and health, have a high potential for growth in the state.

8. Friendly People and Southern Hospitality

If you visit the local attractions in the area, you will find the atmosphere and the people very warm and welcoming. The locals are polite, respectful, and always ready to help. For example, Hochatown has a friendly and festive atmosphere where locals and visitors mingle and celebrate together.

The Flower Buff Manor, which is a B&B and a restaurant, depicts a perfect example of Southern hospitality. Here, you will make close friends in no time.

9. Mild and Pleasant Climate Throughout the Year

Southeast Oklahoma has a subtropical climate, which means it has hot summers and cool winters, with plenty of rainfall and sunshine. The summers can get a bit humid, but the winters are just the right amount of cold. This means you get the taste of the different seasons all year round in Southeast Oklahoma.

10. Delicious and Diverse Cuisine to Relish

Southeast Oklahoma has a variety of restaurants and eateries that offer dishes and drinks that reflect the history, culture and nature of the region. For example, you can get your hands on the Frito Chili Pie, a southwestern dish thought to have been invented in New Mexico but popular all across Oklahoma.

Moreover, add the Chicken Fried Steak to your list of top dishes, which is a southern recipe and is also a staple of Oklahoma cuisine. For desserts, don’t forget to try the Pecan Pie to satisfy that sweet tooth.

Summing Up

There are many reasons to live in and love Southeast Oklahoma. You’ll fall head over heels for the aesthetic beauty, rural charm and also the lifestyle, which is far from shabby. Additionally, the region is safe, secure, and friendly, which are essential qualities to look for when moving to a new home.  

Furthermore, this is a place where you can find everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable life. If you are looking for a new place to call home, consider Southeast Oklahoma as your destination. You won’t regret it.

Back to the Blog

stay up to date