Okmulgee has been the Muscogee (Creek) Nation's capital since the U.S. Civil War. The name is derived from the Creek word "oki mulgee" that literally means "boiling waters" in the English language. There are other translations however, perhaps the most notable being "babbling rock."
The city of Okmulgee is located in Okmulgee County, Oklahoma. As of the 2010 census, the population was estimated to be just over 12,000. Although coal mining, agriculture, and more recently oil, were the main industries of the area, these days, the economy is driven by retail, construction, and health care services.
Moving to Okmulgee
What to Expect
The cost of living in Okmulgee is a sizable amount less than the state average, while it's an even more sizable amount less than the national average. The average price of pizza in Okmulgee is higher than that of the national average, however. But who cares, when you've got a wonderful city to call home?
When to Begin Your Search
You should allow at least eight weeks to find and then relocate to a rental home in Okmulgee. Why? Well, there's a limited amount of availability of rental properties, and you can bet your bottom dollar that if you don't place a deposit on the place that you want, it'll be snapped up right quick.
What You Need
When you're out and about and searching for that oh-so-sweet rental apartment, there are some items you ought to bring along with you. What items are those? Proof of employment and current income is a good start. Enough cash to make a deposit, which is equivalent to at least a single month's rent, is good to have as well. Also, bring some references from previous landlords to provide some form of assurance that you're not a serial property trasher.
Neighborhoods in Okmulgee
There's a limited choice of rentals available in Okmulgee. As such, don't be tempted to hang around when you do find a suitable place. Instead, hand over the deposit and complete the necessary paperwork, and you'll be all set and good to go!
S. Mission Lane: Within the immediate proximity of S. Mission Lane are two schools, some shopping facilities, and restaurants like the Okmulgee Country Club Restaurant.
S. Alabama Avenue: S. Alabama Ave offers a few three-bedroom apartments for rent. There are four schools close by, in addition to a variety of shops and restaurants.
E. 8th Street: With six restaurants and a bank close by, E. 8th Street is a good place for those who are on the lookout for a one-bedroom apartment for rent.
Life in Okmulgee
Getting Around
U.S. Route 75, which serves Okmulgee, operates as a major national north-to-south artery and stretches between Noyes on the Canadian border to Dallas, Texas. The KI BIOS Area Transit System provides a low-cost public bus / van service in and around Okmulgee. The nearest airport to the city is Okmulgee Regional Airport, which provides domestic flights. The closest major airport is Tulsa International Airport, which is approximately 48 miles to the east of Okmulgee.
Keeping Busy
What do folks who reside in Okmulgee do to keep themselves entertained? Creek Council House Museum on W. 6th Street was purchased by the Creeks and offers a very informative view of the historic grounds and bygone years of the area. Henryetta Territorial Museum on W. Moore Street, Henryetta, has served many purposes over the previous 100 years and more. It acted as the VFW and American Legion headquarters, a Boy Scout house, and it was a Red Cross headquarters during World War I. It also operated as a courtroom. Restaurants proliferate in and around the vicinity of Okmulgee. Ike's Downtown Pub and Eatery on Morton Avenue, offers American-style fare to the hungry clientele. Be prepared to loosen your belt mid-meal, as the portion sizes can easily be described as "colossus." Massey's Bar-B-Que Restaurant is the place to go to if you are searching for barbecue. It's reputed as being the very best barbecue in the entire county! Boom A Rang Diner Restaurant on E 6th Street serves up American fast-food cuisine, including cheeseburgers, chicken steaks, mashed potatoes, hamburger steaks, and of course, the quintessential humongous pile of French fries. This establishment is certainly a favorite among the locals!