Tulsa

The former oil capital of the world, Tulsa, Oklahoma, sits on the Arkansas River. Settled between 1828 and 1836, it’s the birthplace of the iconic Route 66. Today, it covers 201.8 square miles, and has a median age of 35.2 (2022). Its economy is mainly driven by finance, aviation, telecommunications, and technology.

Tulsa’s former opulence is evident in Art Deco architecture prevalent throughout downtown. Its residential neighborhoods feature homes in various architectural styles, including Craftsman, Italianate, Prairie School, and Colonial Revival. The average price of a house in Tulsa is $190,716, which is up 16.5% over the past year (Zillow, 2022). The city’s annual events are as varied as its architecture. They include the Festival Hispano, the I AM Yoga, Art + Music Festival, the Tulsa Indian Art Festival, and the Tulsa United Film Festival.

In addition to U.S. Route 66, highways that run through Tulsa include I-44, I-244, and U.S. 64, 75, 412, and 169. The Riverview Historic District, near I-244, has an old-world feel enhanced by Colonial Revival and Tudor Revival-style homes in the area. Nearby Brookside is a young and upscale area that’s very walkable and offers shopping and dining options. Brick buildings in East Village lend a cozy vibe to the neighborhood, which offers great places to eat, drink, and be merry.

Tulsa features a mix of both Native American and African-American culture and history, in addition to a blend of Midwestern and Southern charm.