Once referred to as the "richest 50 acres in the world," Sulphur, Louisiana, came into being after numerous attempts, including deaths, occurred while trying to access sulfur below the earth's surface.
Eventually, a man created a way to liquefy the element and bring it to the surface, which would revolutionize sulfur mining; and this led to tremendous growth that would eventually ensure that the city, only 20 miles from the Texas border, would continue to thrive for years. This city, Sulphur, which was once so dependent on sulfur mines that it was literally named after the element, was able to expand. While petrochemical plants and oil refineries will always be a part of Sulphur, new businesses along with the old have helped the area reach its current population of 20,410 (2010 Census).
Moving to Sulphur
Those looking to move to Sulphur are in for a treat, and there's no need to worry about the smell of sulfur. That has been gone for years, but you've got to feel sorry for those early settlers. Whether looking for a huge home rental or a simple studio apartment for rent in Sulphur, there are a variety of choices. It's important to remember, though, that there are several considerations to keep in mind when moving anywhere. Come on, people! Why would this be any different in Sulphur?
In all honesty, there's really no rush to start looking if you don't mind which area of the city you live in. There are plenty of places to go around, and because about one-in-four of all Sulphur residents are renting, you'll undoubtedly be in great company. Some people like the city so much that they even live in RVs and houseboats. That's right, there are nearby waterways! Eat your heart out, Hilton Head! Obviously, there are a variety of housing types, from city apartments to detached houses. Starting to look even one to two months in advance is sufficient, but if you want to check out all the neighborhoods and pick out the one best suited for you, it wouldn't hurt to start three months in advance.
You should have already made the move if you wanted to attend the Centennial Celebration in the city. That's right: you missed Smash Mouth and John Michael Montgomery. Since that's out of the way, though, you might want to avoid moving in during the summertime. This is the Deep South, after all. Add that to the fact that a typical summer month can bring upward of seven inches of rain on average, and you'll probably thank yourself for moving in the beginning or end of the year. Fortunately because it's in the South, these months won't be too cold. All that being said, we still can't believe you missed Smash Mouth.
Just because there are plenty of places to go around and lots of renters in the city, it doesn't mean that you can slack off when trying to secure a place. You need to make sure you've got proof of income when looking for places to rent. After all, they're going to want to know that you can pay more than just a deposit. You also could help yourself by bringing along a background check so this isn't the place for you if you're looking to hideout from the coppers.
Sulphur Neighborhoods
Sulphur has amazing events for everyone in town. From the Veteran's Day Parade to the Christmas Festival, there's plenty for everyone to do. This doesn't mean, though, that you have to wait around all year for stuff to do. Each neighborhood has its own little benefits, and if you get up and get outside, you'll love what you find!
Maplewood: This neighborhood in the eastern part of Sulphur has a certain quaintness about it. There's a few stores littered throughout the area, but the big sell is that the Maplewood Branch Library is here.
Hollywood: There are nice little subdivisions all over this place! There are no movie stars in this Hollywood. If you're looking to rent an apartment, though, what better place than the neighborhood with a Wal-Mart Supercenter?
City Center: This is definitely the place to be. Everything is here. There's a McDonald's! Want to get away from the confines of your home? There are hotels! West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital is even in this area. It's a little scary that Roseland Cemetery is as well, but that's probably just a coincidence.
West Napoleon Street: If you like getting out of the house a lot, this is the place to go. Both Frasch Park and the Pattison Complex are here. You can get away from any vampires at the Spar Aquatic Center. It's vampires that hate water, right? Or is that witches?
Living in Sulphur
It doesn't matter whether you end up in a nice RV or awesome high rise apartment in Sulphur, living here provides a plethora of great things to do. "Plethora": big word of the day.
Take a Step into History: Head on over to the Brimstone Museum to get a little taste of history in your day-to-day activities. Besides, you know you could use some culture in your life. Ah, you like a little close encounter with history? Well the Hidden Treasures Flea Market and Antiques Shop will have you covered.
Shopping, Shopping, Shopping: Besides the Wal-Mart Supercenter, there's a ton of shopping to do as well. The Westpoint Shopping Center is literally about a 49 second drive from the Maplewood Plaza Shopping Center. Get your shop on!
Lots of Community Events: We already mentioned the Veteran's Day Parade and Christmas Festival, but that's only a small example of community events. You're going to want to make it out to all of these to show your new neighbors that you've got a little of that Southern hospitality everyone is going on about. May we suggest starting at October's Barbecue Fest?
Get Outdoors: One of the greatest parts of living in the South? The outdoors. Head on over to Hidden Ponds RV Park to enjoy a bit of serenity in nature without getting bit all night by mosquitoes. No RV? No issue! They've got cabins too, so get out there and have a night!
Sulphur, Louisiana, is the kind of place in which everyone can find their niche. Now get on out there to find yours!