**Exploring the 918 Area Code: A Comprehensive Guide to Tulsa and Surrounding Areas**

The 918 area code, encompassing the Tulsa metropolitan area and surrounding regions in Oklahoma, is a vibrant and diverse region with a rich history, thriving economy, and abundant cultural offerings. This comprehensive guide will provide an in-depth exploration of the 918 area code, covering topics such as demographics, economic indicators, attractions, and more.

Demographics of the 918 Area Code

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the 918 area code has a population of 980,490 as of 2020. The racial makeup of the region is as follows:

The median age in the 918 area code is 36.5 years, and the area has a slightly higher proportion of females (51.1%) compared to males (48.9%).

Economic Indicators

The 918 area code is home to a diverse and growing economy, with major industries including aerospace, energy, healthcare, and manufacturing. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the Tulsa metropolitan area was estimated at $29.2 billion in 2021.

The region has a labor force of 472,240 and an unemployment rate of 3.5% as of January 2023. The median household income in the 918 area code is $62,520, slightly higher than the national median.

Attractions and Culture

The 918 area code offers a wide range of attractions and cultural experiences for residents and visitors alike. Some of the most popular destinations include:

• Philbrook Museum of Art: One of the largest art museums in the southwestern United States, showcasing a diverse collection from ancient to contemporary works.
• Gilcrease Museum: Home to the world's largest collection of Western American art, featuring paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from renowned artists.
• Tulsa Zoo: A premier zoological park with over 500 species of animals from around the world.
• Gathering Place: A massive riverside park with amenities such as gardens, playgrounds, a boathouse, and an amphitheater.
• Blue Whale of Catoosa: An iconic roadside attraction featuring a 80-foot-long blue whale statue.

Transportation and Infrastructure

The 918 area code has a well-developed transportation system, including:

Airports:

• Tulsa International Airport (TUL)
• Jones Riverside Airport (RVS)

Highways and Interstates:

• Interstate 44
• Interstate 244
• U.S. Highway 64
• U.S. Highway 75

Public Transportation:

• Tulsa Transit: Bus system serving the Tulsa metropolitan area
• GO Transit: Intercity bus service connecting Tulsa to surrounding towns and cities

Communities and Towns within the 918 Area Code

The 918 area code encompasses a number of cities, towns, and unincorporated communities, including:

Major Cities:

• Tulsa
• Broken Arrow
• Jenks
• Bixby
• Owasso

Smaller Towns and Communities:

• Claremore
• Catoosa
• Sand Springs
• Sapulpa
• Glenpool
• Mannford

Educational Institutions

The 918 area code is home to several renowned educational institutions, including:

Universities and Colleges:

• University of Tulsa
• Oklahoma State University-Tulsa
• Oral Roberts University
• Tulsa Community College
• Northeastern State University-Broken Arrow

Public School Districts:

• Tulsa Public Schools
• Broken Arrow Public Schools
• Jenks Public Schools
• Bixby Public Schools
• Owasso Public Schools

Healthcare System

The 918 area code has a robust healthcare system, with several major hospitals and medical centers, including:

• Saint Francis Health System
• OSU Medical Center
• Hillcrest HealthCare System
• Tulsa Spine and Scoliosis Center
• Parkside Hospital

Tables

Table 1: Population by Race in the 918 Area Code

Table 2: Economic Indicators for the 918 Area Code

Table 3: Educational Institutions in the 918 Area Code

Stories

Story 1: The Blue Whale of Catoosa

The Blue Whale of Catoosa is an iconic roadside attraction located along Route 66 in Catoosa, Oklahoma. It was built in 1972 by Hugh Davis as a gift to his wife, Zelta. The 80-foot-long whale statue has become a popular tourist destination and has been featured in numerous films and television shows.

What We Learn: Small acts of love can have a lasting impact and become symbols of a community.

Story 2: Tulsa's Art Deco Legacy

Tulsa is known for its Art Deco architecture, with over 100 surviving Art Deco buildings downtown. This architectural style flourished in the 1920s and 1930s and is characterized by its geometric shapes, streamlined curves, and use of materials such as glass and metal.

What We Learn: Historical preservation can enhance a city's character and attract visitors.

Story 3: The Gathering Place

The Gathering Place is a massive riverside park that opened in 2018 along the Arkansas River in Tulsa. The park is home to a variety of amenities, including gardens, playgrounds, a boathouse, and an amphitheater. It has become a popular destination for families, visitors, and outdoor enthusiasts.

What We Learn: Public spaces can play a vital role in improving a community's quality of life and fostering a sense of place.

How to...

Step-by-Step Approach: How to Find a Job in the 918 Area Code

1. Identify your skills and interests. What are you good at? What do you enjoy doing?
2. Research job openings. Use online job boards, company websites, and social media to find job openings that match your qualifications.
3. Prepare your resume and cover letter. Highlight your skills and experience that are relevant to the jobs you're applying for.
4. Submit your application. Follow the instructions provided in the job description and submit your application materials.
5. Interview for the job. Be prepared to answer questions about your skills, experience, and qualifications.
6. Negotiate your salary and benefits. If you're offered the job, be prepared to negotiate your salary and benefits package.

Comparison of Pros and Cons

Pros of Living in the 918 Area Code:

• Affordable cost of living: The cost of living in the 918 area code is lower than the national average.
• Thriving economy: The region has a diverse and growing economy with a strong presence in aerospace, energy, healthcare, and manufacturing.
• Cultural attractions: The 918 area code offers a wide range of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and performance venues.
• Strong educational system: The region has several renowned universities, colleges, and public school districts.

Cons of Living in the 918 Area Code:

• Extreme weather: The 918 area code is prone to extreme weather events, including tornadoes, thunderstorms, and ice storms.
• Limited public transportation: Public transportation is available in the Tulsa metropolitan area, but it is limited in smaller towns and communities.
• Traffic congestion: Traffic congestion can be a problem during peak hours in the Tulsa metropolitan area.

FAQs

1. What is the area code for Tulsa, Oklahoma?
- The area code for Tulsa, Oklahoma is 918.

**2. What is the population of the 918 area code?