Lawton sits at the base of the scenic Wichita Mountains in southwestern Oklahoma, just 87 miles from Oklahoma City. Founded in 1901 and named after Major General Henry W. Lawton, the city has grown alongside Fort Sill Military Reservation, which continues to be a major economic driver for the area. The mountains to the north provide a stunning backdrop to this Great Plains community, where residents can explore over 59,000 acres of protected wilderness, featuring popular trails like Mount Scott and Elk Mountain, plus fishing and boating at nearby Lake Lawtonka and Lake Ellsworth.

Renters in Lawton enjoy affordable housing options with average one-bedroom apartments renting for around $712 per month, significantly below the national average. The city offers a mix of small apartment communities, townhomes, and single-family rental homes spread across its 81 square miles. Central Lawton features older, established neighborhoods with character, while areas near Cameron University offer convenient living for students and professionals. The southwestern part of the city has seen development of newer rental communities with updated designs.

Employment in Lawton centers around Fort Sill, healthcare at Comanche County Memorial Hospital, education at Cameron University, and manufacturing at places like Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. The city's location along Interstate 44 makes commuting convenient, with the Lawton Area Transit System providing public transportation throughout the area. Residents appreciate local attractions including the Museum of the Great Plains, Fort Sill Museum, and the Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center. With mild winters and hot summers typical of the Great Plains, Lawton offers a comfortable lifestyle with a cost of living well below the national average.