"Oh, the Ozarks! My blessed Mother Land! Speak to me of God's country. Where the trees are green, the rivers are clear and the folks know you by name and greet you as a long lost friend." (Presence)
Situated just 19 miles south of Springfield, Ozark is nestled at the edge of the Ozark Plateau, an area also dubbed "The Ozarks" or "Ozark Mountains." The Ozark Plateau is famed for its beautiful, unkempt nature, and many folks consider it to be one of the last pieces of real "deep country" in the United States. According to the 2010 census, the city of Ozark counts a population of about 17,820 people. However, if the city continues to grow at its current rate, with an expansion of 119% in the past decade, you wouldn't have to worry as much about keeping up with the Joneses as keeping track of who your neighbors actually are.
Don't Be Too Picky
"Oh, the Ozarks! My blessed Mother Land! Speak to me of God's country. Where the trees are green, the rivers are clear and the folks know you by name and greet you as a long lost friend." (Presence)
Situated just 19 miles south of Springfield, Ozark is nestled at the edge of the Ozark Plateau, an area also dubbed "The Ozarks" or "Ozark Mountains." The Ozark Plateau is famed for its beautiful, unkempt nature, and many folks consider it to be one of the last pieces of real "deep country" in the United States. According to the 2010 census, the city of Ozark counts a population of about 17,820 people. However, if the city continues to grow at its current rate, with an expansion of 119% in the past decade, you wouldn't have to worry as much about keeping up with the Joneses as keeping track of who your neighbors actually are.
Moving to Ozark
Don't Be Too Picky
Ozark is a relatively small city with no real distinct neighborhoods, and rentals are hard to come by, especially with the current influx of people. With only 38% of all properties tenant occupied and a mere 5% of all properties available for rent at any given time, now is not the time to be picky. If the kitchen is a tad too small, buy a mirror; if the carpeting doesn't match your furniture, buy a rug or get other furniture.
Start Your Search Early
In Ozark, early birds are more likely to get the premier apartments, especially if you have a check for the security deposit waiting in your back pocket. Start your search at least two months before you plan to move; many apartments only become available two months after the initial advertisement, as tenants need to give the landlord ample notice before moving. The sooner you respond to the ad, the greater your chance of getting the rental.
Bigger May be Better
One-bedroom apartments in Ozark are a rarity, so if you are single, you may want to consider house sharing. If you expand your search to the two-bedroom or three-bedroom apartments or even a four- to five-bedroom house to rent, you will have greater luck. The good news is that rentals are relatively cheap in Ozark compared to the rest of Missouri and the U.S., so you may well be able to afford the extra space.
Life in Ozark
Ozark People
Ozark people have a strong sense of community and sometimes even a unique language. If you happen across any of the hill people on their monthly shopping trip to town, you might want a translator at hand. Innocent remarks about rainy weather may produce colorful references such as "Gully Warsher" or "_Toad Strangler." Folks from the Ozarks can also be very upfront about your appearance, so they might tell you that you look "mighty peakid." _Ozarkers are naturally friendly and caring, something that can take some getting used to.
Transportation
The beautiful landscape may inspire an urge to walk or take a bicycle, but if you live more than a couple of miles from your work, owning a car will make life easier. Most people in Ozark commute using their own vehicle or join carpool groups. The only bus system that runs in the area, OATS, was formerly meant for seniors only, but due to the overall lack of public transport, they are now allowing passengers of all ages. This bus, however, only visits certain parts of Ozark once every couple of days.
Entertainment and Recreation
If you like your food thrown at you, Lambert's Cafe is a must-see. This cafe takes an "in your face" approach when serving their famous delicious rolls, which clients need to catch mid-air. Needless to say, Lambert's Cafe is Ozark's main tourist attraction.
Ozark's town square is usually a hub of activity. Lined by lovely restaurants and shops, there is always something up in downtown Ozark. Regular markets, live music and games keep the town square alive, offering a great way to mix with the locals. If you have a preference for old and dusty things, Ozark has a variety of antique shops where you will find all kinds of interesting thingamabobs.
Nature lovers will have a blast in Ozark. With mountains, lakes and forests just a short drive away, the options are endless. In the city itself, Finley River Park is the spot to be for a daily walk or weekly picnic. The park is also a regular venue for parties, fun runs, charity walks and festivals.
Ozark is a city that has managed to maintain a certain small-town charm despite its rapid growth. It is a place with a lot to offer: lovely shops and restaurants, great entertainment and warm country hospitality.
