Is Lawton Safe, Pros and cons of living in Lawton
Lawton, Oklahoma, situated in the southwestern part of the state, is a city with a rich history and a distinct character. It serves as the county seat of Comanche County and is home to Fort Sill, a significant U.S. Army installation that plays a crucial role in the local economy and community. The city offers a blend of small-town charm and access to urban amenities, making it a unique place to consider for relocation.
The climate in Lawton is characterized by distinct seasons, with warm to hot summers and mild winters. The city experiences a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the majority occurring in the spring and early summer months. Understanding these climatic patterns can help in planning for daily life and outdoor activities.
Is it Safe to Live in Lawton?
Lawton’s crime rate is a significant consideration for potential residents. The city experiences a higher crime rate than the national average, with statistics indicating that overall crime is approximately 64% higher than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). This includes both violent and property crimes, with violent crime rates being about 128.4% higher than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes).
Specifically, Lawton records 820 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, placing it among cities with higher rates of such offenses (as reported by AreaVibes). Property crimes also exceed the national average, with a rate of 2653 per 100,000 residents, which is about 50.7% higher than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). These figures translate to a one in 29 chance of becoming a victim of crime in Lawton (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).
It is important to note that crime rates can vary significantly by neighborhood within Lawton. Some areas are considered safer than others, and awareness of your surroundings is always recommended. While the overall statistics indicate a higher-than-average crime rate, many residents find specific neighborhoods to be safe for daily living. The Lawton Police Department provides resources, including a crime map, to help residents stay informed about local safety (as reported by Lawton Police Department).
Cost of Living in Lawton
The cost of living in Lawton is generally considered to be lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability. Overall, Lawton’s cost of living is approximately 15% lower than the national average (as reported by Payscale). This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, including housing, utilities, and transportation.
Housing expenses in Lawton are notably lower than the national average. The average rent in Lawton is reported to be around $718 per month, which is about 56.2% lower than the national average (as reported by Apartments.com). Similarly, the average listing price for a home in Lawton is approximately $412,442, which is 22.8% lower than the national average (as reported by Apartments.com).
Other essential expenses also contribute to Lawton’s affordability. Utility prices are about 6% lower than the national average, and transportation costs, including gas prices and bus fares, are around 7% lower than the national average (as reported by Payscale). Grocery prices are also slightly lower than the national average, making everyday shopping more budget-friendly.
Housing Market and Rental Options
Lawton’s housing market offers a range of options, from single-family homes to rental apartments, often at more accessible price points compared to national averages. The median home price in Lawton is significantly below the national median, contributing to its appeal for homebuyers (as reported by Apartments.com).
For renters, Lawton provides a relatively affordable market. The average rent is considerably lower than the national average, with many apartments available at competitive rates (as reported by Apartments.com). This makes it a viable option for individuals or families looking to rent before committing to a home purchase.
The rental vacancy rate in Lawton has been noted as soft, which can sometimes translate to more options and potentially more negotiable terms for renters. However, market conditions can fluctuate, and it’s always advisable to research current availability and pricing.
Job Market and Major Employers
Lawton’s economy is significantly influenced by Fort Sill, which is a major employer in the region, providing numerous civilian and military positions (as reported by HUD User). Beyond the military installation, the city boasts a diverse range of industries and employers that contribute to its economic landscape.
Key industries in Lawton include manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and professional services. Major employers such as Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company and Comanche County Memorial Hospital are significant contributors to the job market (as reported by Lawton EDC and HUD User). The presence of these companies offers a variety of employment opportunities across different sectors.
The job market has seen fluctuations, with some sectors experiencing growth and others facing declines. Recent employment data indicates a slight decline in overall employment from the previous year, with the most common employment sectors for residents being Health Care & Social Assistance, Retail Trade, and Manufacturing (as reported by Data USA). The proximity to Fort Sill also fosters opportunities in technology, engineering, and defense-related fields.
Salary and Income Levels
The average salary in Lawton is influenced by the local job market and cost of living. As of recent data, the average annual salary in Lawton is reported to be around $58,534, which equates to approximately $28.14 per hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). This figure provides a general benchmark for earning potential in the city.
The median household income in Lawton is reported at $54,433 (as reported by Data USA and Census Reporter). This median income suggests that half of the households in Lawton earn more than this amount, and half earn less. It’s important to consider this figure in conjunction with the cost of living when assessing financial well-being.
Salaries in Lawton can vary widely depending on the occupation, experience level, and industry. Top-paying professions often include specialized roles in healthcare, such as oncologists or orthopedic surgeons (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The salary range generally falls between $36,899 and $78,722 annually, with the median wage around $53,900 per year (as reported by ZipRecruiter).
Unemployment Rate
The unemployment rate in Lawton is a key indicator of the local labor market’s health. As of recent data, the unemployment rate in Lawton, OK, stands at approximately 4.90% (as reported by YCharts). This rate is slightly higher than the previous month’s rate of 4.40% and higher than the rate from the previous year, which was 3.80%.
This current unemployment figure is also higher than the long-term average for Lawton, which is around 4.78% (as reported by YCharts). While the rate has seen some fluctuations, it remains a point of interest for those considering employment opportunities in the city.
The unemployment rate in Lawton is comparable to some other cities in Oklahoma, with Lawton having an unemployment rate of 5.00% when ranked against other cities in the state (as reported by Place Rankings). Understanding these trends is crucial for job seekers and those evaluating the economic stability of the area.
Climate in Lawton
Lawton experiences a climate typical of southwestern Oklahoma, with hot summers and generally mild winters. Temperatures throughout the year can range from an average low of around 28°F in the winter to an average high of approximately 98°F in the summer (as reported by myPerfectWeather).
The city receives an average annual precipitation of about 32 inches (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The wettest month is typically May, with an average of around 5 inches of rainfall, while January is often the driest month (as reported by myPerfectWeather). Snowfall is minimal, with an average of only 2 inches per year.
The summer months, particularly July, can feel uncomfortably humid. The climate is generally considered to have four distinct seasons, with warm springs and autumns providing pleasant weather between the extremes of summer and winter.
School Ratings and Education
Lawton Public Schools serves the city’s educational needs, offering a range of options for K-12 students. The district has a student-teacher ratio of approximately 17 to 1, with a significant student population (as reported by Niche). State test scores indicate that about 19% of students are proficient in math and 25% are proficient in reading.
Niche provides Lawton Public Schools with an overall grade of B, recognizing its diversity and other factors. The district is noted for being one of the most diverse school districts in Oklahoma, ranking third out of 421 districts (as reported by Niche and Data USA). This diversity is a reflection of Lawton’s varied population.
While the district has strengths, including diversity, some reviews suggest that academic rigor and resources could be improved. Proficiency rates in core subjects are below the state average, indicating areas for potential development within the school system (as reported by Niche).
Demographics of Lawton
Lawton is home to a population of approximately 90,595 residents, according to recent estimates (as reported by Data USA and Census Reporter). The city is the 6th most populated city in Oklahoma (as reported by Census Reporter).
The racial and ethnic makeup of Lawton is diverse. The largest demographic groups include White residents, making up about 48.2% of the population, followed by Black or African American residents at 17.5%, and Hispanic residents at 16.4% (as reported by Census Reporter). Other significant groups include those identifying with Two or More Races (10.4%), Native American/Other (4.5%), and Asian (3.1%) (as reported by Census Reporter).
The median age in Lawton is approximately 32.3 years (as reported by Census Reporter). The population is fairly balanced in terms of gender, with a slightly higher percentage of males. A significant portion of the population consists of families, with a notable percentage of households headed by single individuals.