Community Overview

Exploring Our Community

Lawton, Oklahoma combines small-town charm with modern amenities in the heart of the American Southwest. Flying over Lawton reveals a stunning landscape where the rolling plains of the Great Plains meet the ancient Wichita Mountains, creating a dramatic backdrop that defines the region's natural beauty. The city is surrounded by diverse geographical features, including the pristine waters of Lake Lawtonka to the north and the rugged terrain of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge to the northwest.

Located in the Southwest region of Oklahoma, Lawton serves as the cultural and economic hub of the region, situated approximately 87 miles southwest of Oklahoma City. The city has gained recognition for its rich military heritage as home to Fort Sill, one of the largest military installations in the United States, which has been designated as a National Historic Landmark. The presence of Fort Sill has contributed significantly to the city's diverse population and cultural landscape.

Lawton enjoys a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The area experiences approximately 246 sunny days per year, above the national average of 205, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. Summers are warm and vibrant, while winters are relatively mild with occasional snow. Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures perfect for exploring the region's natural attractions.

The city has garnered attention for its commitment to economic growth and quality of life. Notable businesses that attract visitors include the Apache Casino Hotel, Central Mall, and numerous local enterprises that contribute to the city's economic vitality. The Medicine Park cobblestone community, located just minutes from Lawton, serves as a popular tourist destination with its unique architecture and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Lawton's strategic location provides easy access to major metropolitan areas while maintaining its distinct character. The Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City, approximately 90 minutes away, offers numerous non-stop flights to major cities across the United States. The Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, about three hours south, provides additional travel options with hundreds of non-stop destinations worldwide.

People are drawn to Lawton for its combination of affordability, natural beauty, and quality of life. The cost of living remains notably below the national average, making it an attractive option for professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle. The city's proximity to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, one of Oklahoma's most spectacular natural treasures, offers residents unparalleled access to outdoor recreation, including hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing. Lakes Lawtonka and Ellsworth provide year-round opportunities for water sports and fishing, while the local parks system offers extensive recreational facilities.

The presence of Cameron University, a comprehensive public university, adds an academic dimension to the community, providing opportunities for continuing education and cultural enrichment. The city's commitment to arts and culture is evident in its numerous museums, galleries, and performance venues, including the Museum of the Great Plains and the Lawton Philharmonic Orchestra.

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History Unveiled: A Journey Through Time

The story of Lawton, Oklahoma began with the historic land lottery of 1901, which marked the last major land acquisition in Oklahoma Territory. On August 6, 1901, the city was officially founded when approximately 25,000 homesteaders gathered to claim town lots in the newly opened Kiowa-Comanche-Apache reservation. Named after Major General Henry W. Lawton, a Civil War Medal of Honor recipient, the city's establishment was intricately linked to the expansion of Fort Sill, which had been established in 1869 under the leadership of General Philip Sheridan.

The city's early development was shaped by its proximity to Fort Sill, which has remained an integral part of Lawton's identity and growth throughout its history. Fort Sill's transformation into a major artillery training center during World War I brought significant expansion to the area. The installation's Field Artillery School, established in 1911, has trained generations of artillery soldiers and continues to serve as a crucial military training facility.

During the 1940s, Lawton experienced substantial growth due to World War II activities at Fort Sill. The city's population nearly doubled during this period as military personnel and their families moved to the area. This growth led to the development of new neighborhoods, businesses, and infrastructure to accommodate the expanding community.

The 1950s and 1960s marked a period of significant civic development in Lawton. The establishment of Cameron State Agricultural College (now Cameron University) in 1908 evolved into a four-year institution in 1966, adding an important educational dimension to the community. The university's presence has contributed significantly to Lawton's cultural and intellectual development.

In the 1970s, Lawton continued its expansion with the development of Central Mall, which became a major retail hub for Southwest Oklahoma. The city also saw the creation of new residential areas and the enhancement of public facilities, including the development of the Museum of the Great Plains in 1961, which showcases the region's rich cultural heritage.

The 1980s and 1990s brought further diversification to Lawton's economy. While maintaining its strong military ties, the city began actively pursuing economic development opportunities in various sectors. The establishment of industrial parks and the attraction of new businesses helped broaden the city's economic base beyond its military foundations.

The turn of the millennium saw Lawton focusing on downtown revitalization efforts and community development. Projects such as the renovation of historic buildings and the enhancement of public spaces have helped preserve the city's heritage while preparing for future growth. The 2006 construction of the Lawton Constitution building and the development of new medical facilities demonstrated the city's commitment to modernization while honoring its historical roots.

Recent years have witnessed continued investment in Lawton's infrastructure and quality of life amenities. The city has undertaken significant projects to improve roads, utilities, and public facilities, while also expanding its parks and recreation system. The renovation of historic Medicine Park, just minutes from Lawton, has created a unique tourist destination that celebrates the area's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Population & Demographics: Understanding Our Diverse Community

The Lawton Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), which encompasses Comanche and Cotton counties, boasts a population of approximately 127,000 residents, with the city of Lawton itself home to roughly 93,000 people. The city's unique connection to Fort Sill and its role as a regional hub has cultivated one of Oklahoma's most diverse communities, enriched by military families from across the nation and around the world.

The demographic makeup of Lawton reflects its military heritage and multicultural character. The population consists of approximately 53% White, 19% African American, 6% Native American, 2.5% Asian, 13% Hispanic or Latino, and 12% identifying as two or more races. This diversity is celebrated throughout the year at events such as the International Festival, held annually at Elmer Thomas Park, which showcases the cultures, cuisines, and traditions of more than 30 different nationalities represented in the community.

The linguistic landscape of Lawton is equally diverse, with over 40 different languages spoken throughout the community. Beyond English, commonly spoken languages include Spanish, Korean, German, and Vietnamese, reflecting both the military population and the city's growing international community. This linguistic diversity has fostered a welcoming environment for medical professionals from varied backgrounds.

The median age in Lawton is 30.5 years, significantly lower than the national average, indicating a young, dynamic population. This youthful demographic is partially attributed to the military presence and Cameron University's student population. The median household income stands at approximately $48,000, with many families benefiting from stable military and government employment as well as growing opportunities in the private sector.

The employment landscape in Lawton offers diverse opportunities for physician spouses and family members. Major employers beyond Fort Sill include Comanche County Memorial Hospital, Southwestern Medical Center, Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, and Cameron University. The healthcare sector is particularly robust, employing over 5,000 people in various capacities. Technology and defense contractors also maintain a strong presence, with companies like BAE Systems and Northrop Grumman offering high-skilled positions.

The professional sector continues to expand, with growing opportunities in education, finance, and business services. The Lawton-Fort Sill Economic Development Corporation actively works to attract new businesses and industries to the area, creating additional employment opportunities. Healthcare professionals' spouses often find opportunities in healthcare administration, education at Cameron University, or within the numerous government contractors supporting Fort Sill.

For those interested in entrepreneurship, Lawton's Small Business Development Center provides resources and support for starting and growing businesses. The city's relatively low cost of living and business-friendly environment have made it an attractive location for small business development, particularly in sectors supporting the healthcare industry and military community.