Tulsa, Oklahoma: The New Hotspot for West Coast Transplants
Tulsa, Oklahoma, formerly known as the oil capital of the world, has seen an unexpected surge in popularity in recent years. This once sleepy town has evolved into a vibrant hub for culture, community, and urban redevelopment. This transformation has been spearheaded largely by the George Kaiser Family Foundation (GKFF) and is attracting a wave of newcomers, particularly from the West Coast.
The Tulsa Renaissance
GKFF has been an instrumental force in Tulsa's revitalization. With their vision to make Tulsa the best city for children to grow and succeed, they have invested millions in improving the quality of life. They have established everything from parks to entrepreneurial incubators, all with the aim of making the city more livable and attractive.
Perhaps the most striking example of this is the Gathering Place, a 66.5-acre park along the Arkansas River. Launched in 2018, this nearly $465 million venture is the largest private gift to a community park in U.S. history. The park, conceived by the renowned landscape architect Michael Van Valkenburgh, offers a variety of free experiences for all ages and abilities, making it a valuable community resource.
A New Cultural Hub
The downtown Tulsa Arts District is another area that has seen significant change due to the GKFF’s initiatives. Starting with the purchase of a whole square block in 2007, the Foundation has turned the district into a cultural center filled with art shows, concerts, and public events. Notable attractions include the Woody Guthrie Center and Philbrook Downtown, both housed in a converted warehouse and drawing a significant number of tourists.
The GKFF has also facilitated the growth of startups in the city with the development of an entrepreneurial "incubator" called 36 Degrees North. This affordable space helps burgeoning businesses find their footing, encouraging economic growth within Tulsa.
The transformation continued with a $25 to $30 million investment to convert a warehouse into apartments and retail space, hosting a variety of businesses including Magic City Books, Glacier Bean to Bar, and Lone Wolf Banh Mi.
California Exodus Fuels Tulsa's Growth
An important factor in Tulsa’s growth is the influx of people moving from California. According to the U.S. Census Bureau data, in 2019 alone, approximately 7,408 Californians relocated to Oklahoma, with a significant number choosing Tulsa as their new home.
The trend appears to be driven by several factors. Some Californians are seeking lower costs of living and a slower pace of life. Tulsa offers both, along with a sense of community and hospitality that can be hard to find in larger cities. Tulsans are known for their welcoming and down-to-earth attitude, creating a hospitable environment for newcomers.
Residents here are known to form deep, lasting relationships. It's a place where running into friends at the grocery store or having a long chat with a stranger is the norm, rather than the exception.
Community at its Core
At the heart of Tulsa's appeal is its community spirit. The city is famous for its array of communal events that celebrate its unique culture, mixing elements of the South, Southwest, and Midwest, alongside Native American and cowboy heritage. Highlights include Oktoberfest, the annual Tulsa Tough bicycle race, and numerous food festivals.
In conclusion, Tulsa's recent development, fueled by the George Kaiser Family Foundation, coupled with its distinctive culture and welcoming community, has made it an attractive place for those seeking a new beginning. As more people from the West Coast and beyond continue to discover its charms, Tulsa's star is set to rise even further. It's no wonder that "T-Town" is fast becoming one of the country's most desirable places to live.
Oklahoma Welcomes“A stranger is just a friend I haven't met yet."
Will Rogers
Learn More About Oklahoma's
Favorite Son, Will Rogers
View Our Featured Listing
80-Acre Peninsula Property on Lake Oologah