Norman, Oklahoma, the third largest city in the state, offers plenty of opportunities to explore with its expansive landmass spanning 189 square miles. Locals distinguish between East and West Norman, each side having its own advantages and drawbacks. To help visitors understand the differences, let’s compare and contrast the two distinct sides of Norman. This will be helpful for those seeking to determine the ideal place to settle down. Norman’s vast size is evident, covering a significant land area that includes a lake and is intersected by the I-35 interstate. If you require further information about these vibrant cities, feel free to reach out via email or feel free to schedule a call with me!

East Norman and West Norman present a notable contrast, with East Norman being considerably larger. Zoom in on the Fred Jones Museum of Art, located at the University of Oklahoma, to discover more about this captivating city. The lake is situated far east from the border that separates the two sides, and regardless of where you stand, you can find beauty in every corner as it surrounds the area.

West Norman, due to its location within the floodplain, encompasses a smaller area. The floodplain becomes apparent beyond 48th Avenue Northwest, which can be observed on Google Maps as a series of white squiggles representing neighborhoods.

Beyond 48th Street in West Norman, you’ll find a distinct region mostly comprised of horse properties, many of which span around 10 acres. The floodplain in this area restricts the construction of smaller dwellings, making it an appealing location for equestrian enthusiasts.

Flood risk varies across Norman, depending on the specific location. While some floodplains exist in nearby Franklin, within the city limits, the chances of exposure to potential floods are much lower. This condition is crucial for homeowners and buyers, as it impacts insurance premiums and must always be disclosed during transactions. Consequently, many individuals have been inquiring about this topic recently.

Central Norman, situated between 35 and the railroad tracks or 77, showcases a vibrant mural of history. This part of town has experienced significant growth since its origins in the 1950s and 1960s. Today, it serves as a living museum, offering insights into the area’s development over time. Flood Avenue, located nearby and running parallel to I-35, provides a unique view from West Norman, situated on the opposite side.

Amenities

When it comes to amenities, East Norman and West Norman have notable differences, particularly in terms of grocery stores. The most significant contrast lies in the availability of options. While the west side of town has a Sam’s Club, the choices are limited compared to East Norman. East Norman boasts both a Costco, located in Moore proper, and a Walmart Neighborhood Market dedicated solely to groceries (without non-grocery items). The latter opened last summer and has gained popularity since its introduction.

Norman’s West Side offers a plethora of shopping opportunities, making it a paradise for shoppers. Convenient stores and supercenters abound, allowing you to fill up your gas tank at a nearby gas station and find everything from food to household items within walking distance. For everyday needs, Crest is just around the corner, and a large Target with various departments caters to those seeking specific items. Individuals looking for organic products may consider visiting Homeland, similar to Albertsons or Reasors, as well as Sprouts located on Main Street, which specializes in natural groceries.

Norman takes pride in providing for its residents, regardless of whether they reside on the East or West side. Grocery shopping options are abundant, with three Super Walmarts and numerous neighborhood markets within a 10-15 minute drive from any location in Norman. This ensures a wide variety of food choices for all local residents.

Library

Norman residents are fortunate to have the Pioneer Library System, which consists of three branches, each with its own level of excellence. The Central branch stands out as the largest and most impressive within the system. West Norman formerly housed a Borders store, which has now been transformed into a library, while East Norman features an ultra-modern model reminiscent of something out of a sci-fi film.

The Library System in Norman is truly remarkable. Patrons can order any book from one of the branches and have it delivered within a few days. Additionally, the library offers a wide selection of movies and accessible online materials. The library itself is stunning, adding to the overall enjoyable experience for those who take advantage of its resources.

Downtown Norman, with its charming vintage atmosphere, is a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. Its diverse range of restaurants offers delicious cuisine from around the world, and Gray Owl Coffee remains a beloved spot in the city. Residents of East Norman have the advantage of enjoying these culinary delights without the need for long drives across town, unlike their West Norman counterparts in the past.

Downtown Norman showcases a rich history, with many older houses located near the University of Oklahoma. These buildings, dating back to 1889, provide a unique glimpse into the past and contribute to the character of this part of town. Furthermore, there are three designated historical districts situated just east of downtown, ensuring the preservation of old-world charm for future generations.

Downtown Norman is a vibrant area with ample opportunities for exploration. Being in close proximity to the University of Oklahoma, it’s easy to access the Amtrak train station and venture to nearby towns like Fort Worth or Ardmore. Additionally, there are three historic districts that contribute to the liveliness of this city, with two located near OU and one closer to downtown. If you’re interested in learning more about Downtown Norman, feel free to check out the four videos available on my channel, offering a virtual tour.

University of Oklahoma

East Norman is proudly home to the University of Oklahoma, which serves as the largest employer in the city. This esteemed university spans an impressive 5 square miles and offers a wide range of programs, including Health Sciences and Business, at its satellite campuses in and around Oklahoma City. East Norman is a preferred location for faculty members, providing convenient living while still being close enough for students to explore downtown and its offerings.

Located in the heart of Norman, Oklahoma, the University of Oklahoma (OU) attracts approximately 25,000 students. The campus comes alive with a unique energy, particularly during the autumn season, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds. Whether you’re seeking sports venues that have hosted Big 12 championships or engaging lectures on cutting-edge topics, OU offers a comprehensive college experience. Watch my virtual tour of OU Campus!

While East Norman exudes a cozy small-town feel, with its historic downtown dating back centuries and newer additions from the early 20th century, West Norman presents a stark contrast. Developed primarily in the 1970s on previously sparsely populated pasture land, this newer side of town offers a completely different atmosphere that one should experience firsthand. Geographically, we generally distinguish between these two distinct areas of the city by referencing everything east or west of I-35, respectively, when discussing Norman.

House Prices

As house prices continue to rise in West Norman, driven by the limited availability of land and the presence of highly rated schools, homeowners may find it tempting to join the trend. However, it’s essential to consider individual lifestyle preferences, as there may be drawbacks. For example, the distance from desired destinations could result in increased travel time or added expenses. While Hansom, for instance, found West Norman to be a great fit due to the proximity of his yoga studio and a gym he frequented three times a week, it’s important to remember that the ideal location depends on individual circumstances.

Norman, Oklahoma offers a range of exciting locations and diverse amenities, catering to various preferences, whether one seeks a bustling city center or a small-town atmosphere. For those desiring an urban experience with easy access to downtown, North East Norman is an ideal choice. It benefits from its close proximity to both I-35 and OU’s main campus. Additionally, this area boasts fewer drive-through establishments compared to the west side, creating a more “neighborhood coffee shop” vibe, including popular spots like Starbucks. This makes it an attractive gathering spot for residents, particularly in the mornings.

Land Availability

While some residents in East Norman may find themselves farther away from grocery stores than desired, it’s worth noting that these residences still retain a Norman address, offering a favorable compromise between location and convenience.

As real estate development expands in East Norman, more land becomes accessible for new homes and projects. Building a house in this area typically requires a minimum of 10 acres of property, along with access to well water and septic systems. Fortunately, the recent installation of fiber optics has provided superior internet service to this region, ensuring superfast connections. On the other hand, development on the West side of town has not kept up with modern times, with builders mainly constructing homes in the Carrington Lakes neighborhood featuring architecture from the 1970s and 1980s.

Lake Thunderbird is a noteworthy attraction in East Norman, offering residents the opportunity to enjoy lakeside living. With its stunning views and two marinas, it’s an ideal destination for sailing, fishing, and leisure activities. However, it’s important to note that building homes directly on the lake is strictly forbidden.

Lake Thunderbird, situated in Oklahoma, is a man-made lake that draws visitors for fishing, swimming, horseback riding, and hiking. With two beaches perfect for basking in the summer sun, it’s no wonder that residents living around 30 minutes away frequently make trips there, either by boat or on foot. Additionally, Lake Thunderbird serves as a state park, providing families with the opportunity to enjoy picnics while marveling at the breathtaking views.

Residents of Norman emphasize the importance of considering travel time when choosing a location. If easy access to the lake is a priority, those looking in West Norman may want to reconsider, as it takes approximately 30 minutes to reach Lake Thunderbird from there. However, if daily commuting downtown for work or leisure activities is a primary concern, the West side of town offers convenient highway and interstate access that may be more suitable than other areas closer to downtown.

Train Tracks

Norman residents who seek housing close to Tinker Air Force Base often choose to live east of the base, specifically along Sunny Lane or Sooner Road. These streets offer convenient commute access without the need to take the interstate. This route is particularly popular among individuals employed by TAFB, providing both convenience and an improved quality of life.

Having grown up in the small town of Claremore, I have always been familiar with the impact of train tracks on daily life. The sights and sounds of trains have become a rhythmic presence for local residents, who have learned to plan their days around their passing. While trains can sometimes be unpredictable, causing delays or unexpected stops, it is comforting to know that this steady presence remains after all these years.

During my childhood, it was not uncommon for my family to encounter delays caused by two trains during a single outing. However, in the city of Norman, Oklahoma, where I am from, we have an underpass that allows travelers to bypass train delays if necessary. If there is heavy traffic near Westwood Park golf course, particularly at the intersection of Robinson Street and the railroad tracks, that is where our underpass begins, providing an alternative route to avoid lengthy waits. Moore and Norman offer a tranquil escape from the noise of train whistles, creating a peaceful atmosphere for those wandering through these towns.

I invite you to join me on a guided tour of Robinson Street, where you can fully explore its unique charms and discover why it has become a popular route for navigating the city. With widened lanes, it has never been easier to traverse this vibrant street. Experience all the sights it has to offer in one fantastic journey. Check out the link now for more information, and don’t forget to also refer to my relocation guide for additional assistance.