Outdoor recreation, farming and familiar faces define life in Licking
Licking is a rural Texas County city offering a slower pace of life and quick access to nearby recreation. Its location in the heart of the Ozark Mountains means people can fish, hunt and camp throughout the year. Agriculture and a local correctional facility support the economy, but the city’s central throughfares also connect to major employers in neighboring towns. Annual events keep the community connected. “Everybody knows each other pretty well, unless it’s new people who have just moved in,” says Joan Brannum, the city’s downtown coordinator. “A lot of new people are coming in because it’s cheaper to live here. They don’t want to pay high taxes in places like Texas and California.”
Neighborhoods have roomy lots, shady trees and bungalows
Residential areas are roomy, offering space and some privacy between neighbors. Mature trees shade grassy lawns occasionally dotted with shrubs and flowers. Streets are narrow, so driveways and carports accommodate parking. Bungalow and ranch-style homes are the most common, but mobile homes and two-story builds are sometimes available. Prices vary from $80,000 to $250,000 depending on a home’s size, age, condition and attached acreage.
Ozark destinations support sport fishing, deer hunting and summer play
The city is in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, making it a hub for outdoor recreation. Licking is particularly known for its sport fishing and deer hunting. Residents are within 30 miles of destinations like Montauk State Park, Big Piney River and Mark Twain National Forest, where the Paddy Creek Wilderness is located. Many offer primitive camping sites, versatile nature trails and river access for fishing, swimming and kayaking. Inside the city limits, Deer Lick Park offers everything from shaded playgrounds and public ball fields to the Licking Aquatic Center. The accessible pool is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, hosting periodic events like night swims and neon glow parties. Smaller parks include Licking Roadside Park and Old Licking Park, which have playgrounds and picnic areas.
According to First Street, Licking has a major risk of wildfire over the next 30 years. Wildfires have been a growing issue across the Ozarks, and natural fires have caused mass power outages and evacuation orders throughout Texas County in recent years.
Retail options include small cafés, farmers markets and fresh eggs
Shopping and dining options are around the city, from local cafés and restaurants to secondhand markets and national chains. Feedlot Cafe serves laid-back breakfasts and lunches, while The Merry Table is known for its “Sammich” combos and pasta meals. T J’s Flea Market specializes in antiques, and Hammond Feed supports local farmers and homesteaders. The city’s old-fashioned downtown is home to many businesses, including the Texas County Museum of Art. Town & Country Supermarket is the area’s primary grocery store, but the Licking Farmers Market sells locally sourced produce and meat from May to August annually. “We’ve also got lots of Amish people around,” Brannum says. “They’ve built a bunch of chicken barns all around here and sell plenty of eggs.”
Commuters travel to Rolla and Salem for major employers
Agriculture is one of the oldest industries in Licking, and the city doesn’t have many major employers besides the South Central Correctional Center. Commuters are within 35 miles, or roughly 25 to 35 minutes, of Rolla and Salem , which have employers like US Foods and Phelps Health hospitals. Highway 63 and state Route 32 are the primary thoroughfares to reach these cities. The nearest airport is Waynesville-St. Robert Regional Airport, about 35 miles away. The closest hospital is Texas County Memorial Hospital, roughly 15 miles away.
Students can earn scholarships through the Licking A+ School program
Students attend Licking Elementary from prekindergarten to sixth grade. The school has a C rating from Niche. Licking Junior-High School has a C-plus score and serves seventh through 12th grades. The school is a designated A+ School, meaning students who meet certain requirements may be eligible for a full scholarship to any of the state’s community colleges or technical schools.
Seasonal events include rodeos, tractor pulls and holiday craft fairs
The Licking Chamber of Commerce Rodeo is one of the city’s biggest events. The 40-year tradition includes everything from a downtown parade and live music to various contests. There are horse races, watermelon eating competitions and a cowboy costume contest. In September, people watch as vehicles compete in the Licking FFA’s Truck & Tractor Pull. During winter, holiday celebrations are in full swing. “We have our Christmas parade, and a bunch of crafters set up in the VFW hall to sell their crafts,” Brannum says. When summer rolls back around, locals attend the Annual Route 63 Car & Bike Show at Old City Park and a Fourth of July fireworks show at Deer Lick Park.
