Okemah residents are midway between OKC and Tulsa
Okemah is about 70 miles east of Oklahoma City on Interstate 40, and Tulsa , the state’s second-largest city, lies roughly the same distance to the north. “We can easily get to Tulsa or Oklahoma City, so we can still live in a small town but have access to the big cities,” says April Curry, a 30-year resident and broker and owner of OK Real Estate. The city of 3,000 was the birthplace of Woody Guthrie, and tributes to the folk legend are scattered throughout the city. Okemah also serves as headquarters for the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town, a federally recognized Native tribe with over 1,000 members.
Homes range from midcentury ranch-style to custom builds
The average home value in Okemah is about $130,000 — roughly half the average for the Tulsa and Oklahoma City metro areas. Despite the low prices, properties typically remain on the market for around 90 days, compared to the national average of 53 days. “Sometimes they don’t linger, and sometimes they do,” Curry says. “We’re a pretty rural area, and we don’t have a lot of workforce, so that’s probably why.” Homes in the central area are built closely together on lots measuring up to a third of an acre, with paved driveways and small front yards. The residential grid gives way to the Oklahoma prairie on the city’s outskirts, where custom-built homes occupy multiacre properties. Attached garages and carports help protect against vehicle damage from winter ice storms. Okemah is in Tornado Alley, and some houses have storm shelters or safe rooms. Small midcentury ranch-style and Craftsman houses cost $65,000 to $140,000, while larger ranch-style and New Traditional homes from the late 20th century go for $150,000 to $260,000. Custom-built homes from the last five years sell for $475,000 to $550,000.
Public schools earn average ratings and offer cultural support
Oakes Elementary School serves students from prekindergarten through Grade 3 and receives a C from Niche. For grades 4 and 5, kids attend Okemah Noble Upper Elementary, rated C-plus. Okemah Middle and High Schools are rated C. The district’s Native students receive cultural support through the Title VI and Johnson O’Malley (JOM) programs. Oklahoma’s school choice law allows students to transfer outside their residential district, and the Parental Choice Tax Credit provides reimbursement to families who send their kids to private schools.
Barbecue, tacos and cozy coffee spots in Okemah
Locals sip coffee and chai in the cozy confines of The Mosaic Grind, which has a secluded outdoor patio. Tacos El Palomo serves authentic street tacos and other Mexican favorites. Joe Davidson, better known as Oklahoma Joe, opened The Founder on West Frontage Road in 2025. The location is billed as a steakhouse, but the chain’s classic barbecue beefs up the menu. “He’s from Okemah, so he’s investing in our community,” Curry says. Groceries and essentials are available at Homeland and Ace Hardware, and commuters can fuel up at the gas pumps at Red & White Grocery. Okemah Casino, one of several casinos owned by the Muscogee Nation, offers year-round nightlife.
Fishing, camping and hiking at nearby lakes
Okemah Lake, about 7 miles north of the city, is a good spot for fishing, boating, swimming and camping. Mature trees provide shade to picnic areas along the water’s edge. More fishing and camping opportunities await at Okmulgee & Dripping Springs Lake & Recreation Area, about 30 miles away. The Oak Leaf Nature Trail spans over 3 miles through the woods and along the lakeshore, and the facility provides storage for boats, RVs and campers.
Oklahoma City and Tulsa are both within 70 miles
Local schools and Creek Nation Community Hospital contribute to the workforce, but many residents commute to the larger cities. I-40 runs through the heart of the city and connects to Oklahoma City, about 70 miles away. Tulsa is closer at 65 miles, but the drive takes roughly the same amount of time. Travelers can fly out of Tulsa International or Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City, both approximately 75 miles away. KI BOIS Area Transit System (KATS) provides on-demand transportation on weekdays.
Live music rocks the Woody Guthrie Folk Festival in July
The Woody Guthrie Folk Festival, known as “WoodyFest,” takes place on the weekend closest to the late star’s July 14 birthdate. More than 10,000 visitors descend on Okemah to visit the monuments and enjoy live concerts. The Crystal Theatre, a historic venue owned and operated by the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town, hosts several shows during the celebration.
