Tulsa
Lortondale
If Lortondale is known for one thing, it’s character. The historic Tulsa neighborhood, which prides itself on its mid century modern homes, was conceptualized by Tulsa architect Donald Honn and builder Howard Grubb in the 1950s.
Originally priced between $12,750 and $16,650, the homes in Lortondale have steadily increased over time.
Empty nesters interested in settling in Lortondale can tap into the neighborhood’s tight-knit community. Many residents participate in architecture-focused events, such as the neighborhood’s annual Tiki Party and Mid-Mod Crawl.
Another unique feature of Lortondale is its two community pools, which function as mainstays for neighborhood events. Throughout the year, residents gather by the poolside for movie nights, yoga classes, book discussions, live music and barbecues. To get unlimited access to the pools in the summertime, people can join the 5300 Club Pool or the Lortondale Pool Club.
Nestled in the heart of midtown Tulsa, Lortondale’s proximity to shopping and entertainment adds to its desirability.
Stillwater
Dubbed “America’s friendliest college town,” Stillwater has a lot to offer.
“We’re a small community of about 50,000; however, we have a major D1 university,” says Cristy Morrison, president and CEO at Visit Stillwater.
The suburb has plenty for empty nesters in the way of sports. Oklahoma State University has built a reputation for its athletics programs, hosting sporting events throughout the year. The city is also the home to the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.
“The museum teaches people about the sport, the increasing popularity of women’s wrestling and the US presidents’ contributions to the sport,” explains Morrison.
Stillwater also prides itself for its legacy in the Red Dirt Music scene, which has originated acclaimed musicians like Garth Brooks, Tom Skinner and the Red Dirt Rangers.
Other leisure and entertainment in the area include the McKnight Center for Performing Arts, Eskimo Joe’s and Boomer Lake Park. Efforts to revitalize and expand Downtown Stillwater have been underway, too. In 2025, Stillwater will open Block 34, a downtown community space which will feature several outdoor amenities, including a beer garden and a musicians walkway.
Morrison, who has lived in Stillwater for 28 years, describes the community as laidback.
“I transferred here as a sophomore in college from the university in northern England,” she recalls. “I love it so much here that I never left.”
Owasso
Community-oriented and fast-growing, Owasso sits 15 miles northeast of Tulsa. Between 2010 and 2022, the city’s population grew by 36%. Despite its rapid expansion, Owasso maintains a close-knit, supportive culture.
Owasso launched the City of Character initiative in 2002, which promotes a monthly character trait that residents can strive to embody in their personal and professional lives.
The city further cultivates a sense of community and connectedness through its recreation and public events. Empty nesters can get to know their neighbors during Owasso’s Neighborhood Block Party, a citywide event that encourages residents to socialize with one another through self-organized activities, such as pet parades and cookie decorating. Other popular events include the Lawn & Garden Spring Fling, the Redbud Farmer’s Market and the Owasso Christmas Parade.
As a suburb of Tulsa, Owasso has benefitted from excess funds collected from the Tulsa County Vision 2025 sales tax. The city has put those funds toward enhancing roadways and intersections, expanding its walking trail systems and opening a dog park. Local attractions, such as Centennial Park, the Mary Glass Performing Arts Center and the Downtown Redbud District also enrich the quality of life.
Carlton Landing
Carlton Landing is a master-planned, resort-style town that spans 600 miles of shoreline along Lake Eufaula. Established in 2013 with the vision to foster a community focused on sustainable, healthy living, Carlton Landing boasts 10+ community parks, connected by pedestrian pathways and boardwalks.
The town is divided into many walkable neighborhoods that make the most of the natural landscape. Each neighborhood is centered around a common space, such as a courtyard, park or community garden. As of 2022, the city has a population of 43 residents, with a median age of 54.
Paying homage to the pioneers in the Oklahoma Land Runs, the city’s designated architectural style is traditional American farmhouse.
Lake life is deeply embedded into the community. Residents can join the exclusive Carlton Landing Boat Club to get unlimited access to a private, luxury fleet of ski boats and pontoons. It also includes access to the club’s water gear, such as lifejackets, waterboards and water skis.
In addition to outdoor recreation, Carlton Landing features a community pool, a church and a fitness center. Residents can also enjoy a small collection of restaurants and pop-up shops.
OKC
Nichols Hills
Nichols Hills has a reputation as one of the most illustrious suburbs in the Oklahoma City area.
“I think that the prestige comes from the fact that there is a lot of charm, character and tradition,” says Sody Clements, the Mayor of Nichols Hills.
Although the city occupies less than two square miles, it is home to over 31 parks. In 2023, the city council formed and appointed a Public Arts Commission, which will further beautify the city by overseeing the installation of art exhibitions throughout its parks.
The city’s emphasis on safety is another big draw. The Nichols Hills Fire Department has an average response time of 4 minutes and 38 seconds.
For leisure, residents can unwind and dine at the Classen Curve in the Nichols Hills Plaza, which offers a combination of market-exclusive brands and locally owned boutiques. The Oklahoma City Golf & Country Club is another popular attraction.
The median age for residents is 46 years, with the median income per capita at $194,579 in 2022 – three times the state median.
“Even though Nichols Hills is surrounded by Oklahoma City, we are our own little town,” says Clements. “I like living here because everywhere I go, I run into people I know.”
Gaillardia
Named after the state’s official wildflower, Gaillardia is an opulent, gated neighborhood located in northwestern Oklahoma City. Situated on 600 acres, the neighborhood features the Old-World style Gaillardia Country Club, which is known for its world-class, championship golf course.
In addition to golf, the country club offers a fitness center, swimming pool, driving range and playground area. Members can take part in a variety of events.
Gaillardia is also known for its elegant, beautifully designed homes. Common architectural styles include French Country and French Normandy. Occupying large lots, the residences foster a sense of privacy.
The median estimated home value clocked at $1.54 million. Approximately 77% of the households are without children, and the median age of residents is 55 years.
Gaillardia is centrally located by several amenities, including the Quail Springs Mall, Lake Hefner, Chisholm Creek and Mercy Hospital.
Medicine Park
Medicine Park was established in 1908 as the state’s first resort town. With a population of 450, the small town provides empty nesters with the opportunity to unplug from the hustle and bustle of city life. In 2022, the city unveiled strategic plans to develop the local economy, public services and the area’s walkability by 2040. The city is also leaning into what it’s known for best – outdoor recreation.
“You can hike up Mount Scott and have a picnic or drive three hours into Green Country. I think[Medicine Park] has the best of everything,” says Rainette Rowland, Executive Director and CEO of the Medicine Park Aquarium and a resident for 12+ years.
The Wichita Wildlife Refuge is the backdrop for the town, spanning over 60,000 acres of grass prairies, freshwater lakes and mountainous terrain. Lake Lawtonka, which borders the city, is known for its teeming bass population, holding the state record for the largest-reeled smallmouth bass.
The diversity of wildlife is also a draw for bird watchers and animal lovers. On weekends, tourists and locals can visit the Medicine Park Aquarium, which showcases indigenous wildlife and a butterfly garden.
“We’re a very family-friendly community,” says Rowland. “There are all different local flavors of people, and we’re very nice and welcoming.”
Durant
Durant prides itself on its progressive community and diversified economy. The city serves as the capital of the Choctaw Nation, housing the tribe’s headquarters.
Residents can enjoy Durant’s small-town feel while partaking in a variety of community events. Starting this year, the city will host its inaugural sports festival in celebration of the community’s athleticism. Durant is also the site of the Magnolia Festival of Oklahoma, which features carnival rides, fair food, a 5K race and other family-friendly activities.
Local attractions include the Three Valley Museum, Old Icehouse and Choctaw Casino and Resort. The city operates 11 public parks, including the Durant Multi-Sports Complex.
Durant’s historic Main Street has been undergoing revitalization efforts. On Saturdays during select months, residents can gather together and shop for fresh produce, artisanal goods and floral arrangements at the Magnolia Farmers Market.
Another upside is the city’s close proximity to Lake Texoma, Oklahoma’s largest manmade lake.
Main image cutline: Durant; photo courtesy Visit Durant
