Opp offers convenience and Southern charm
The city of Opp calls itself “The City of OPPortunity” and it lives up to its nickname. Its location near bustling Mobile and Florida’s state line gives its roughly 6,700 residents access to big city amenities and Panhandle beaches. At home, Opp offers small-town Southern charm, with regular events, a downtown with local shops and restaurants, and outdoor recreation on Lake Frank Jackson, which is known for its freshwater fishing.
Ranch-style homes and bungalows are most common
Homes close to the heart of the city are mostly smaller bungalows, Minimal Traditional and ranch-style. Lot sizes tend to be petite, and houses sit close together. Sidewalk-lined streets lead to Main Street, which has shops, services and restaurants. Near city lines, architectural styles are similar, but lot sizes are often bigger, and homes usually have carports or garages. Prices range from about 110,000 to about $190,000. Fixer-uppers can be found for less than $50,000.
Opp schools range from B-minus to A-minus ratings
Opp City Schools serves the city and has a B-plus rating on Niche. Kids attend A-minus-rated Opp Elementary, B-rated Opp Middle, and B-minus-rated Opp High. Students at Opp High can participate in the school’s dual enrollment program and earn credits toward a degree at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College, which has a campus on the city’s north side and offers associate degrees and certificate programs.
State parks, pools, and Lake Frank Jackson offer outdoor fun
Frank Jackson State Park is the main destination for outdoor recreation. It offers fishing and boating on Lake Frank Jackson, hiking and birdwatching. Golfers tee off at Opp Country Club, which offers a private, nine-hole course. Veteran’s Memorial Pool and the city’s splash pad are near North Main Street. The Opp Sports Complex has tennis courts, basketball courts and ball fields. Many of Florida’s Panhandle beaches are about 80 miles away.
Main Street and Covington Avenue are hubs for shopping and dining
Services, restaurants and a mix of chain and local stores are located primarily along Main Street and Covington Avenue. Residents pick up groceries at DG Market, Grocery Outlet and We Go Shop. Some of the most popular local restaurants are Benton’s, a laid-back spot serving burgers, Philly cheese steaks and milkshakes, and Wheelhouse, which offers Southern-style dishes like shrimp and grits and banana pudding. Churches are located throughout the city, sometimes on residential streets. Mizell Memorial Hospital is near the city’s center and has an emergency room.
Fall events include Opp Fest and Scarecrows in the Park
Opp Fest takes place every October and features live music, a classic car show, vendors, kids’ activities and a petting zoo. Scarecrows in the Park is another popular fall event, where trails in Frank Jackson State Park are lined with scarecrows. The kickoff event in October has a tractor show, live music and hayrides.
Highway 331 connects Opp to nearby towns and I-10
Due to the lack of a fixed public transportation option, residents get around the city by car. U.S. Highway 331 circles most of Opp and leads to Interstate 10 and nearby communities. Interstate 10 leads to Mobile, about 150 miles away.
Climate considerations
Summer temperatures in Opp are usually in the 80s and 90s with high humidity. Winter temperatures are often in the 60s. Tornadoes are uncommon but are possible.