The capital of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City is one of the largest cities of the nation in terms of its area. A low unemployment rate, continuing steady economic expansion, and a prime Sun Belt location are attractive to new businesses. New residents are attracted by its sunny climate, educational and job opportunities, numerous cultural assets, and recreational attractions. After experiencing economic difficulties with the 1980s oil slump and enduring one of the nation's worst terrorist attacks with the 1995 Murrah Federal Building bombing, Oklahoma City continues a vigorous rebound with a growing population and increasingly diversified economy.

The climate of Oklahoma is influenced by the Great Plains region. Oklahoma City is one of the sunniest, windiest cities in the country. Summers are long and hot while winters are short and mild. Tornadoes are not uncommon. In May 1999 central Oklahoma was hit by the most devastating tornadoes in its history, a series of twisters that flattened entire neighborhoods in the city and caused $40 million in damage in central Oklahoma.

Area: 606.99 square miles (2000)

Elevation: 1,291 feet above sea level

Latitude: 35.48 N

Longitude: 97.53 W

Average Temperatures: January, 45.9° F; July, 80.7° F; annual average, 60.1° F.

Average Annual Precipitation: 32.03 inches of rain; 9.0 inches of snow

Population: 531,324 as on 2005

Attractions

• Frontier City Theme Park
• Oklahoma City Zoo
• State Capitol Building
• Martin Park Nature Center
• Myriad Gardens
• Overholser Mansion

Festivals

• Oklahoma Youth Expo
• OKC Centennial Horse Show
• Oklahoma City Spring Festival
• State Fair of Oklahoma
• Septemberfest
• November World Championship Quarter Horse Show