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Elk City, OK

Frequently asked questions

Elk City, OK

Elk City is a city in Beckham County, Oklahoma, United States. The population was 11,561 at the time of the 2020 census, a slight decrease from the 11,693 figure of the 2010 census. Elk City is located on Interstate 40 and Historic U.S. Route 66 in western Oklahoma, approximately 110 miles (180 km) west of Oklahoma City and 150 miles (240 km) east of Amarillo, Texas. 

In 1541, Francisco Vásquez de Coronado became the first known European to pass through the area. The Spanish conquistador was traveling northeast across the prairie in search of a place called Quivira, a city said to be fabulously wealthy with gold. Because Coronado's route across the plains is speculative, it is quite possible that the expedition passed through present-day Elk City or the nearby area.

Elk City's history dates back to the days immediately following the opening of the Cheyenne-Arapaho reservation in western Oklahoma Territory on April 19, 1892, when the first white settlers made their appearance. Before this time, many early ranchers had driven cattle over the Great Western Cattle Trail from Texas to Dodge City, Kansas, the present townsite of Elk City being in the direct path of that famous trail. 

Elk City is located in northeastern Beckham County. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 16.4 square miles (42.5 km2), of which 16.2 square miles (41.9 km2) is land and 0.23 square miles (0.6 km2), or 1.37%, is water.

Elk City, OK, prioritizes the health and wellness of its community members with a range of spas, gyms, and wellness activities. Serenity Spa offers a variety of rejuvenating treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps, providing a tranquil escape from daily stressors. Modern Fitness is a comprehensive fitness center equipped with modern workout facilities, personal training services, and group exercise classes to support individuals in achieving their fitness goals. Superior Health and Fitness and  CrossFit Velox offer classes for practitioners of all levels, focusing on mindfulness, relaxation, and physical wellness through yoga and meditation practices. Thrive Chiropractic Group specializes in chiropractic care, rehabilitation services, and nutritional counseling, promoting holistic well-being and pain management. Additionally, Elk City Parks and Recreation Department organizes outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and sports leagues, encouraging an active lifestyle and fostering community connections. These diverse offerings make Elk City a destination for holistic health and wellness, enriching the lives of its residents.

The top sites in Elk City, OK are the National Rt 66 and Transportation Museum, Old Town Museum, Ackley Park, and Elk City Golf & Country Club.

Population: 11,290 (2022). ZIP Codes: 73644, 73648. Area code: 580. Elevation: 1,936 ft (590 m). Area: 16.15 sq mi (41.84 km2).

FAQs

Why is it called Elk City, OK?

Originally called Crowe, the townspeople, eager for industry, renamed the town Busch, hoping to woo the favor of Adolphus Busch, so that the town might get a brewery. However, when the brewery did not materialize, the name Elk City was officially changed in 1901. Elk City was named after Elk Creek, which in turn had been named after an Indian Chief, Elk River, who lived in this vicinity years before.

What is the poverty rate in Elk City, OK?

24% of the population for whom poverty status is determined in Elk City, OK (2.75k out of 11.4k people) live below the poverty line, a number that is higher than the national average of 12.6%. Most people in Elk City, OK drove alone to work, and the average commute time was 19.1 minutes. The average car ownership in Elk City, OK was 2 cars per household.

What are the demographics of Elk City, OK?

The largest Elk City racial/ethnic groups are White (72.8%) followed by Hispanic (21.6%) and Black (2.2%). With 11,494 people, Elk City is the 41st most populated city in the state of Oklahoma out of 831 cities. But watch out, Elk City, because Okmulgee with 11,366 people, and Guthrie with 10,872 people are right behind you.

Sources

Elk City, Oklahoma - Wikipedia

City of Elk City

Data USA

OK Demographics by Cubit

Serenity Spa

Modern Fitness

Superior Health and Fitness

CrossFit Velox

Thrive Chiropractic Group

National Rt 66 and Transportation Museum

Old Town Museum

Ackley Park

Elk City Golf & Country Club

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