At the beginning of the American Civil War, Confederate Brigadier General James McBride provided West Plains' residents with the ultimatum of either joining the Confederate cause or leaving the area. The majority chose to flee, and by the time the war was over, only 10 percent of the population remained.
The city of West Plains is located in Howell County, Missouri
At the beginning of the American Civil War, Confederate Brigadier General James McBride provided West Plains' residents with the ultimatum of either joining the Confederate cause or leaving the area. The majority chose to flee, and by the time the war was over, only 10 percent of the population remained.
The city of West Plains is located in Howell County, Missouri. From the 2010 census, the population was estimated to be around 12,000. West Plains is said to have a humid subtropical climate and experiences exceptional humidity during the summer months. The yearly high average temperature of 89 degrees falls in July, while the annual lows of a chilly minus-18 degrees typically occur in January.
How much will it cost?
The cost of living in West Plains is a little less than the state average, and it's a great deal less than the national average.
When to begin looking
You should allow at least three weeks to relocate to a rental home in this area of Missouri. There's a great deal of availability of one-bedroom apartments for rent, as well as two-bedroom apartments, and premier apartments in West Plains, but it's still wise to come prepared to place a deposit on your dream home to avoid it being snatched away from your grasp.
Cycling in the city
A great way to get around the city is to use the cycling trails in the area. Currently, there are 116 cycling routes in and around West Plains, so there's really no excuse why you shouldn't jump on the old bike and start putting the foot to the pedal!
There's a very impressive choice of rentals available in West Plains. Nevertheless, don't be tempted to hang around when you do find a suitable place. Instead, hand over the necessary deposit and complete the requisite paperwork, and you'll be all set and good to go! Check out these areas to find your new home.
Edwards Drive: With easy access to Highway 14 and to U.S. 63, it's relatively easy to find attractive furnished apartments in this part of West Plains.
6th Street: Located within walking distance of the city's park and Ozark Medical Center, and with five restaurants and a gas station close by, 6th Street is certainly an enticing proposition for a rental place. The area also offers a zero crime rating.
5th Street: With a healthy WalkScore of 49 out of 100, 5th street affords five restaurants and a gas station within easy walking distance. The crime rating is a perfect zero.
S. Harlin Drive: With the provision of five restaurants in close proximity and a WalkScore of 74 out of 100, S. Harlin Drive is a must-see for those seeking two-bedroom apartments in West Plains.
Getting around
There's no doubt that car drivers who reside in West Plains, Missouri, are spoiled for choice. The area is served by U.S. Route 63, which travels along the length of the city's western and southern borders. U.S. Route 160 travels northeast to southwest through the city. State Routes 14 and 17 also serve West Plains. The closest train stations are all located in Missouri, which is approximately 100 miles distant. West Plains Regional Airport, which is 10 miles north of the city, serves domestic flights, while Memphis International Airport, in Memphis, is the nearest international airport at 186 miles from West Plains.
Keeping busy
With its headquarters in West Plains, Heart of the Ozarks Bluegrass Association promotes a number of annual festivals in HOBA Park. The festivals, which occur at varying times throughout the year, feature live gospel, bluegrass, and country music, as well as harmonica performances and a crafters convention.
The Harlin Museum on Worcester Avenue celebrates both the art and history of the surrounding area through the showcasing of assorted collections that include antique farming equipment, portraits, and memorabilia such as dolls, baseball cards, and uniforms. Furthermore, there are artifacts on display that relate to those residents of the area who excelled at their professions such as Dick Van Dyke, the actor; Bill Virdon, the baseball great; and country music star Porter Wagoner. Originally, the building that hosts the museum was a movie house.
Ozark Caf on Missouri Avenue serves up fresh, tasty foods, including chicken, meatloaf, steak, and catfish. The El Charro Mexican Restaurant on Porter Wagoner Boulevard affords a healthy variety of Mexican-style cuisines. The food is quality, and so is the service. For fish enthusiasts, there is the Fish Shack, also located on Porter Wagoner Boulevard. The staff will also rustle up French fries for those who like to truly stuff their bellies.
At the beginning of the American Civil War, Confederate Brigadier General James McBride provided West Plains' residents with the ultimatum of either joining the Confederate cause or leaving the area. The majority chose to flee, and by the time the war was over, only 10 percent of the population remained.
The city of West Plains is located in Howell County, Missouri
View West Plains City Guide